College of Health Sciences

Office of the Dean

1155 N University Drive

John L.Buskey Health Sciences Center

Room 101

Montgomery, Alabama 36104

(334) 229-5053 voice

(334) 229-4964 fax

www.alasu.edu

Degree Required Admission Test
MSOT- Occupational TherapyGRE General or MAT
MSPO- Prosthetics and OrthoticsGRE General or MAT
MRC- Rehabilitation Counseling GRE General or MAT
DPT- Physical Therapy GRE General or MAT

The mission of the College of Health Sciencesis to educate and graduate reflective, culturally competent healthcare professionals/practitioners who are skilled in providing for the needs of consumers who seek their services.A special educational emphasis is placed on the development of cultural competence and helping skills required when working with those from traditional underserved and underrepresented communities. Each prospective student must meet the entrance requirement for the individual program of study, in addition to The Murphy Graduate School requirements, for admission. Each professional program has a rigorous curriculum and is fully accredited by the discipline specific accreditation agency. The college offers programs leading to: Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Master of Science in Prostheticsand Orthotics, Master of Rehabilitation Counseling, and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees. The college also offers the Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation Counseling and the Graduate Certificate in Disability Studies, Policy and Services. Courses with the designation HSC are interprofessional courses and may include students from more than one discipline.

Clinical Doctor of Physical Therapy

John L. Buskey Health Sciences Center

Suite 108

(334) 229-4709 (voice)

(334) 229-4945 (fax)

Physical therapists (PTs) are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.

PTs examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function and prevent disability. In addition, PTs work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness-and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles

PTs provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings and nursing homes. State licensure is required in each state in which a physical therapist practices.

Accreditation

The Physical Therapy Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) through 2018. Current and prospective students may file a complaint with CAPTE in writing: 1111 N. Fairfax St. Alexandria, VA 22314, by phone: 1-800-999-2787, or by email: accreditation@apta.org.

Mission and Philosophy

In accordance with the mission and role of the University, the mission of the Physical Therapy Program is to graduate reflective practitioners who are skilled in providing for the needs of underserved and underrepresented clients in the Montgomery community, throughout the state of Alabama and nationally. The University will recruit, admit, retain and graduate students dedicated to attaining the knowledge and skills needed to deliver this mission.

The philosophy of the Alabama State University graduate program in physical therapy is based on the belief that conceptsfrom the physical, biological andsocial sciences serve as the scientific foundation for physical therapy education and practice. Therefore, the elements of prevention, examination, evaluation and intervention are based on the application of these concepts for a better understanding of patients’ physical, psychological and social conditions; thereby enhancing overall physical therapy management. Furthermore, we believe that individual and cultural differences have a significant impact on health, illness, disability and recovery. Consequently, the program attempts to address these issues throughout the didactic and clinical curricula for meaningful patient outcomes.

We believe that learning is an interactive process that is most effective when the following conditions are in place:

  1. Objectives are clear, attainable and meaningful to the learner;
  2. A variety of learning experiences are planned for the attainment of objectives,and so arranged that they provide continuity, reinforcement and association,building on prior knowledge and experiences;
  3. The learner is provided opportunities to utilize critical thinking in applyingknowledge, concepts and principles in a variety of situations;
  4. Individual variables and environmental factors are considered in meeting theneeds of the learner; and
  5. Measurable outcomes are produced.

We believe that in this physical therapy program, students function best in a supportive and nurturing environment. We offer advising and mentoring to ensure that students have opportunities to express their needs and to obtain the tools to self-assess for lifelong learning.

We believe that our program should prepare students to function in specific ways. The program, through its curriculum, including evidence for current practice, through an appropriate learning environment, and through modeling professional behavior reflects our attempt to produce students who can function competently, compassionately and autonomously. The program is charged with producing entry-level, professional general practitioners, capable of serving the community. We believe that the program provides the graduates with the potential to respond effectively to the ever-changing demands of the profession and healthcare environment.

Recognizing the expanding role of the physical therapist, the increasing complexity of healthcare delivery and the ever-changing health needs of society, the goals of the physical therapy program at Alabama State University prepares graduates to:

  • Recognize the influence ofsocial, economic, legislative and demographic factors on the delivery ofhealthcare
  • Communicate with diverse audiences demonstrating sensitivity and awareness of individual differences suchas age, race, gender and socioeconomic background;
  • Practice in an ethical, legal, safe, caring and effective manner;
  • Screen individuals to determine the need for physical therapy examination or referral to other healthprofessionals;
  • Examine and evaluate a patient/client in order to make an appropriate physical therapy diagnosis or referral;
  • Design and manage a comprehensive physical therapy plan of care; and
  • Serve as advocates for health promotion and disease prevention.

Prerequisite Courses (entry-level DPT degree program)

In addition to satisfying the general admission requirements of The Harold Lloyd Murphy Graduate School at Alabama State University, the following special requirements must be satisfied by students seeking admission to the physical therapy program:

PREREQUISITE COURSE/SUBJECT AREA TOTAL NUMBER OFCREDIT HOURS REQUIRED
Biological Sciences w/Lab 8
Human Physiology w/Lab 4
Human Anatomy w/Lab 4
General College Chemistry I & II w/ Lab 8
College Physics w/ Lab I&II 8
General Psychology 3
Statistics 3
Calculus, Pre Cal/Trig or higher 3
Speech 3
English Writing Composition
(beyond the basic English Composition)
3
Developmental Psychology 3
Upper Level Psychology, Sociology or Ethics 3
  • Completion of a baccalaureatedegree from an accredited educational institution with a minimumcumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;
  • Prerequisite GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;
  • Completed application package for the physical therapy program. (www.PTCAS.org);
  • Completionof required prerequisite courses with a ―C: or above Grade of ―B‖ is recommended.
  • A minimum of 80 hours of observation, volunteer or paid service in physical therapyunder the supervision of a licensed physical therapist at a hospital, nursinghome, rehabilitation center, outpatient clinic or community center. (Twosites are suggested)
  • Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores. A passing score on the Test ofEnglish as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Test of Written English (TWE) and the Test of Spoken English (TSE) for international students; All exam results should be received by theapplication deadline.
  • Three recommendations are required: one from a physical therapistdocumenting applicant’s exposure to a physical therapy clinical setting; theother two can come from another physicaltherapist, college professor, academic advisor or recent employer who canevaluate the applicant’s academic abilities and character.
  • A written personal statement demonstrating the student’s ability tocommunicate clearly his or her interest in pursuing the clinical doctorate inphysical therapy; The essays will be submitted through PTCAS.org.

Note: Completion of minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.Prerequisites are subject to change.

Curriculum

Each student enrolled in the physical therapy program is expected to complete the 114 hours of professional courses, including fivefull-time clinical internships. Students become eligible for the National Physical Therapy Examination after graduation from an accredited physical therapy program. The curriculum is subject to change pending approval by the University.

Clinical Doctor of Physical Therapy

Required Professional Curriculum:

114 semester hours

(Designedto be completed within 3 years)

Fall 1

HSC 5001 Advanced Gross Human Anatomy 6
HSC 5002 Functional Human Anatomy 2
HSC 5004 Patient Care Concepts I 1
HSC 5004 Introduction to Rehabilitation Professions 1
PTH 5110 Introduction to Physical Therapist Practice 1
PTH 5120 Human Embryology 1

Spring 1

HSC 5005 Neuroscience 4
HSC 5006 Intro to Res & Evidence-based Practice 2
HSC 5010 Patient Care Concepts II 2
HSC 5011 Biomechanics 2
HSC 5014 Psychosocial Aspects of Disability 3
PTH 5226 Applied Human Physiology 1
PTH 5221 General Pathology 2
PTH 5335 Physical Agents 2

Summer 1

PTH 5321 Applied Pathology and Histology 2
PTH 5325 Educational Interventions 1
PTH 5236 Introduction to Therapeutic Exercise 2
PTH 5390 Clinical Affiliation I 2
PTH 5391 Introduction to Clinical Practice 1

Fall 2

HSC 5009 Assistive Technology in Rehabilitation 2
HSC 5008 Pharmacology 2
HSC 5013 Intro to Integumentary System 1
PTH 6433 Intro to Prosthetics & Orthotics 1
PTH 6443 Intro to Orthopedic Physical Therapy 3
PTH 6453 Intro to Neurologic Physical Therapy 3
PTH 6463 Intro to Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation 2

Spring 2

PTH 6534 Differential Diagnosis and Imaging 3
PTH 6543 Clinical Orthopedics 3
PTH 6553 Clinical Neurologic Physical Therapy 3
PTH 6563 Clinical Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy 3
PTH 6573 Clinical Integumentary Physical Therapy 1
PTH 6583 Acute Care Practice 2

Summer 2

HSC 5007 Research in Health Profession 2
PTH 6690 Clinical Affiliation II. 5

Fall 3

PTH 7782 Geriatrics 3
PTH 7783 Pediatrics 3
PTH 7784 Gender Health 2
PTH 7785 Health Promotion and Wellness 2
PTH 7789 Directed Independent Study * 2
PTH 7790 Clinical Affiliation III 4

*or semester 8, Spring Year 3)

Spring 3

PTH 7825 Health Disparities 3
PTH 7826 Administration and Practice Management 2
PTH 7849 Spinal Thrust Manipulation 2
PTH 7886 Sports Physical Therapy 2
PTH 7890 Clinical Affiliation IV 5

Summer 3

HSC-5099 Capstone or HSC-6000 Thesis 3
PTH 7990 Clinical Affiliation V 5

Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) Track

Purpose

The tDPT is a structured post professional educational experience that results in the augmentation of knowledge, skills and behaviors to a level consistent with the current professional DPT by ―filling in‖ any gaps between professional baccalaureate ormaster’s degree PT education and the current professional DPT degree education. It provides degree parity.

The transitional DPT post professional physical therapist education program is one that: 1) allows the U.S. licensed physical therapist to obtain the clinical doctorate by demonstrating knowledge commensurate with that of current professional (entry-level) DPT program outcomes and 2) takes into account a learner/applicant’s knowledge and experience.

The curriculum designed for the tDPT track consists of 10 courses which encompass the depth and scope of the established national competencies. Courses are to be offered primarily online with a mandatory on-site component for the terminal coursework.

Admission Criteria

  • The portfolio evaluation is the method used for admission to the tDPT track; and
  • Completed graduate school application.

Transitional Doctor of PhysicalTherapy (tDPT)Curriculum

Note:Note: Course selection for completion of the tDPT track is contingent upon portfolio analysis (i.e. transcript credit, national board certification, mandatory re-licensure, continuing education coursework, etc.).

PTH 631 Pathophysiology 3
PTH 670 Research Methods 3
PTH 674 Clinical Research 3
PTH 678 Documentation 2
PTH 680 Evidence Based Practice 3
PTH 690 Differential Diagnosis 3
PTH 694 Diagnostic Tests 2
PTH 759 Clinical Pharmacology 2
PTH 794 Primary Care 2
PTH 795 Health Disparities 3
PTH 799 Professional Seminars 1

60 Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Degree

John L. Buskey Health Sciences Center

Suite 211

(334) 229-5056 (voice)

(334) 229-5882 (fax)

www.alasu.edu(web address)

Mission

The mission of the Occupational TherapyProgram at Alabama State University is to serve the city of Montgomery, the state, the nation and global community. The program is also designed for those students whose interests and aptitude carry them beyond routine classroom experiences.The curriculum, through a logical and developmental sequence of learning and service, creates an environment that will prepare and graduate proficient entry-level therapists who demonstrate competency in evidenced-based clinical practice in the profession of occupational therapy. Additionally, the curriculum:

  • Prepares students to work with diverse populations in varied settings;
  • Promotes critical thinking, ethical decision-making skills, and clinical reasoning to further knowledge of occupation and efficacy of practice and research;
  • Develops professionals who are able tocommunicate, understand and apply the science of occupation and who are dedicated to a lifelonglearning process;
  • Involves faculty and students in public service programs by providing them with research based guidance on policy and program approaches and initiatives for addressing community problems.
  • Strives to improve the underrepresented minorities in the field of occupational therapy;
  • Fosters an environment that supports experiential and self-directed learning and promotes personal and professional development for eligible students, regardless of socioeconomic status; and
  • Emphasizes the role of purposeful activity and occupation and adaptation in development throughout the lifespan.

Accreditation

The Occupational TherapyProgram is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814-3449,(www.acoteonlineorg). AOTA’s phone number is (301) 652-AOTA. Program graduates sit for the National Certification Examination for the Occupational Therapist administeredby the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). Most states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination.

Early Determination Reviews for Students with a Criminal History

Early determination reviews are offered to individuals who are considering entering an occupational therapy educational program or who have already entered an occupational therapy educational program and wish to have his or her criminal background reviewed prior to applying for the National Board for Certification in Occupational TherapyCertification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure. For further information, please contact the Occupational Therapy Chair at (334) 229-5056 and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. at 12 S. Summit Avenue, Suite 100,Gaithersburg, MD., 20877-4150.(301) 990-7979 (voice); (301) 869-8492 (fax); www.nbcot.org. (web address)

Program Goals

Graduates of Alabama State University Occupational TherapyProgram will:

  1. Expand scholastic skills for personal, occupational, and professional growth.
  2. Develop a dedication to life-long learning and commitment to public/community service.
  3. Demonstrate professional behaviors that are congruent with the core values and code of ethics and standards of the occupational therapy profession.
  4. Utilize the occupational therapy practice framework as a guide for decision making regarding patient care and outcomes.
  5. Use evidence based practice as a means to identify and guide best occupational therapy practice.
  6. Examine the impact of physical, social, temporal, cognitive, psychological, spiritual, environmental, and cultural contexts that impact occupational performance.
  7. Evaluate and develop goals and intervention plans in conjunction with the client, their support system, and other healthcare team members to provide a comprehensive, holistic and client-centered approach to care.
  8. Understand the importance of advocacy and promotion of the occupational therapy profession, as well as the role of other health professionals and the importance of the inter-professional team.
  9. Participate as consumers and producers of research.
  10. Be competent as an entry level therapist with the ability to work in a diverse healthcare delivery system and appreciate the different roles of occupational therapists working in varying healthcare systems.
  11. Be competent in communication skills, leadership, and critical thinking.
  12. In some instances, represent the pool of underrepresented minorities in the field of occupational therapy.

These educational goals are dynamic and interdependent of each other. Throughout the educational process, the program strives to provide a firm support system, nourish students as a whole person and draw upon and strengthen their cultural and academic roots so that they may be transplanted to any environment and adapt to varied applications of occupational therapy practice.

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree(minimum 2.7 undergraduate grade point average [GPA] with official transcripts)
  • MAT or GRE score transcripts
  • ASU OT Program prerequisite courses -grade of "B" or better recommended in each
  • Three letters of recommendation, one from an occupational therapist
  • Early Determination(a felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure) document. This will be completed at the time of the Onsite Interview.
  • Observation/Volunteer Hours (minimum of 40 hours in 2 facilities/settings, dated/completed within 12 months of submission).These hours must be complete at the time of application.

Onsite Interview: Candidates selected for the required Onsite Interview will be notified in Early March.The required Onsite Interviews will be scheduled for Late Marchor Early April.In accordance with the admissions dates/deadlines provided online at www.alasu.eduin the ―Application Instructions‖ section.

The Alabama State University Department of Occupational Therapysubscribes to the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service (OTCAS).To get started,visit the OTCAS portal at https://portal.otcas.org/. Directions for document submission appear on the OTCAS website. The supplemental application materials are available on the ASU OT homepage

PREREQUISITE COURSE/SUBJECT AREA TOTAL NUMBER OFCREDIT HOURS REQUIRED
Introduction to Psychology 3
Developmental (Lifespan) Psychology 3
Abnormal Psychology 3
BehavioralScience Elective Course * 3
English/Writing/Literature 6
College Algebra or above 3
Statistics 3
General Biologywith Lab 4
Biological Science Elective with Lab ** 4
Human Anatomy with Lab *** 4
Human Physiology with Lab *** 4
Physics with Lab 4

*Recommendedbehavioral science elective coursesinclude sociology, psychology of learning, theories of personality, psychology of gender, etc.

**Recommendedbiology elective courses include cell biology, histology, molecular biology, microbiology, or immunology

***HumanAnatomy and Physiology (A&P) I and II may be substituted for separate courses in human anatomy and physiology.Courses must be taken in sequence. If you take A&P I, you must take A&P II. If you take Anatomy, you must take Physiology.

Prerequisites and program courses are subject to change without notice.

PROGRAM TECHNOLOGY: The learning formats will include traditional face-to-face classroom learning with faculty and other students, WEB-enhanced learning (such as Blackboard), face-to-face interaction via audio and video technologies (distance education technology), and combinations of these formats. The classrooms, labs, technology, and resources in the ASU OT Program support distance learning.

NOTE:Any student taking PHY 206 and/or MAT 225 at ASU must complete Math 165 prerequisites.

Occupational Therapy Curriculum Sequence

Total Credit HoursRequired: 91

NOTE: Designed to be completed in two and a half years.

Fall 1 Year 1

HSC 5001 Advanced Gross Human Anatomy w/Lab 6
HSC 5003 Patient Care Concepts I-Lab course 1
HSC 5004 Intro to Rehabilitation Professions 1
OTH 5110 Fundamentals of Occupational Therapy 2
OTH 5120 Ethics and Professional Development 2
OTH 5130 Theory of Occupational Therapy 2
 
Total Credits
14

Spring 1 Year1

HSC 5005 Neuroscience w/Lab 4
HSC 5006 Intro to Research & Evidence Based Practice 2
OTH 5210 Occupation Through the Life Span 3
OTH 5211 Analysis of Occupation 3
OTH 5212 Therapeutic Measurement 3
  Total Credits 15

Summer 1 Year 1

HSC 5007 Research in the Health Professions 2
HSC 5008 Pharmacology 2
OTH 5301 Administration and Management 2
OTH 5302 Disease and Occupation 3
OTH 5304 Fieldwork Level 1 (1of 3) 1
  Total Credits 10

Fall 2 Year 2

HSC 5009 Assistive Technology in Rehabilitation 2
OTH 6404 Fieldwork Level I (2 of 3) 1
OTH 6408 Research Topics 1
OTH 6410 Community Based Intervention 2
OTH 6412 Therapeutic Intervention & Special Topics 3
OTH 6434 Physical Dysfunction w/Lab 4
OTH 6435 OTH 6435 Psychosocial Dysfunction w/Lab 3
  Total Credits 17

Spring 2 Year 2

HSC 5099 Capstone 3
OTH 6504 Fieldwork Level I (3 of 3) 1
OTH 6408 Research Topics 1
OTH 6509 Professional Seminar/Research 2
OTH 6520 Documentation & Professional Writing 3
OTH 6534 Physical Dysfunction II w/Lab 4
OTH 6535 Psychosocial Dysfunction II w/Lab 4
  Total Credits 17

Summer 2 Year 2

OTH 6604 Fieldwork Level II [A] 9
  Total Credits 9

Fall 3 Year 3

OTH 7704 Fieldwork Level II [B] 9
  Total Credits 9

Master of Science Degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O)

1600 Forest Avenue

(334) 229-5888 Voice

(334) 229-5878 Fax

ASUPandO@alasu.edu Email

Prosthetics and Orthotics

Prosthetists and orthotists are specialized healthcare professionals who develop unique skills both clinically and technically. The prosthetist and orthotist begin the process with the evaluation of the patient, followed by fabrication, and then fitting of the artificial limbs (prosthetics) and orthopedic braces (orthotics).

Accreditation

The Prosthetics and Orthotics Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). CAAHEP staff can be reached at 1361 Park Street, Clearwater, FL 33756; (727) 210-2350; www.caahep.org.

Mission

The prosthetics and orthotics program coincides with the College of Health Sciences’mission to graduate reflective practitioners with unique skills in providing for the different needs of underserved and nontraditional clients in the Montgomery community, throughout the state of Alabama and nationally. The University will recruit, admit, retain and graduate students dedicated to attaining the knowledge and skills needed to deliver this mission.

The mission of the prosthetics and orthotics program is to prepare and foster prosthetic and orthotic practitioners who possess the knowledge, skills, attitudes, compassion, and cultural competenceneeded to provide prosthetic and orthotic services to both the traditional and underserved communities in the city of Montgomery, the state and nation, while increasing the community’s awareness of prosthetics and orthotics.

Program Goals and Objectives

The specific aims of the proposed Masters of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics program are to:

  • Prepare prosthetics and orthotics practitionerswho possess the knowledge, skills, and attitudesneeded to provide services to both the traditional andunderserved communities;
  • Produce prosthetics and orthotics practitionerswho will join the workforce of certified prosthetists, orthotists and pedorthists in Alabama, the Southeastern United States and beyond;
  • Facilitate the American Board for Certificationin Orthotics and Prosthetics goal to increasethe number of entry level practitioners with master’s degrees; and
  • To improve prosthetics and orthotic care in the treatment of persons with neuromuscular and musculoskeletal impairments.

Graduates of Alabama State University’s graduate program in prosthetics and orthotics will:

  • Become certified prosthetists-orthotists;
  • Apply effective clinical decision making and problem solving skills;
  • Demonstratethe integration of knowledge, theory and application of the clinical and technical aspects ofthe prosthetics and orthotics disciplines;
  • Exemplify the role of the prosthetist-orthotist in providing ethical, patient-centered care experiences that are congruent with the corevalues and code of ethics and standards of theAmerican Board for Certification in Orthotics andProsthetics (ABC) Code of ProfessionalResponsibilities in clinical practice;
  • Comprehend and demonstrate knowledge of the collaborative role of the prosthetist-orthotist as a member of the interdisciplinary rehabilitation team in providing patient-centered care;
  • Demonstrate an awareness and respect for all patients and related individuals within a diverse and multicultural society;
  • Demonstrate the ability to participate as a critical consumer of research and to integrate research findings as evidence in clinical practice; and
  • Demonstrate an appreciation for the value of life-long learning and a commitment to public/community service.

Admission Requirements

In addition to satisfying the general admission requirements ofThe Harold Lloyd Murphy Graduate School at Alabama State University, the following special requirements must be satisfied by students seeking admission to the Prosthetic and Orthotic Program:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 2.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale;
  • Completed application package for the prosthetic and orthotic program via OPCAS athttp://www.ncope.org/opcas/;
  • Completion of the required prerequisite courses with a ―C‖ or above;a grade of ―B‖ or above is recommended for the sciences;
  • A minimum of 100 hours of volunteer or paid servicein orthotics and/or prosthetics under the supervision of a certified/licensed prosthetist-orthotist at a hospital, nursing home, rehabilitation center, outpatient clinic or community center. Two different settings are recommended.
  • Three recommendations are required:one from a Prosthetist-Orthotist documenting the applicant’s exposure to a prosthetics and orthotics in a clinical setting and one from an instructor, academic advisor or recent employer who can evaluate the applicant’s academic abilities and character.
  • A written personal statement demonstrating the student’s ability to communicate clearly his/her interest in pursuing the Master of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics.
  • Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or MAT scores. A passing score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Test of Written English (TWE) and the Test of Spoken English (TSE) for International Students. All exams results should be received by the application deadline.
  • A completed application to The Murphy GraduateSchool.

Perquisite Courses

COURSE CR HR COURSE CR HR
Biological Science courses w/labs* 8 GeneralPsychology 3
Human Anatomy w/lab** 4 DevelopmentalPsychology 3
Human Physiologyw/lab ** 4 Statistics 3
General CollegeChemistry I w/lab 4 Upper Level Psychology orSociology 3
College Physics Iw/lab 4 Math: Pre-Calculus trigonometry orhigher 3

* Courses in any aspect of microscopic, vertebrate or human biology are recommended. Botany courses are not accepted as prerequisites.

** Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II may be substituted for separate courses in human anatomy and physiology

Note: Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee acceptance into the Prosthetics and Orthotics program. Prerequisites are subject to change without notice.

Curriculum (Prosthetics and Orthotics)Total Hours 66

Year One

HSC 5001 Advanced Gross Human Anatomy 6
HSC 5002 Functional Human Anatomy 2
HSC 5003 Patient Care Concepts I 1
HSC 5004 Introduction to Rehabilitation Professions 1
MPO 5110 Introduction to Prosthetics and Orthotics 2
MPO 5190 Clinical Rotation I 1
HSC 5006 Introduction to Research &Evidence-BasedPractice 2
HSC 5010 Patient Care Concepts II 2
HSC 5011 Biomechanics 2
MPO 5210 Lower Limb Orthotics I 3
MPO 5220 Lower Limb Prosthetics I 3
MPO 5230 Neuroscience for P&O 2
MPO 5290 Clinical Rotation II 1
HSC 5007 Research in the Health Professions 2
MPO 6510 Upper Extremity Orthotics 3
MPO 5320 Cranial Seminar 1
MPO 5340 Pathology in P&O 3
MPO 5390 Clinical Rotation III 1
MPO 5399 Professional Seminar in P&O 1

Year Two

HSC 5013 Introduction to the Integumentary System 1
MPO 6410 Lower Limb Orthotics II 3
MPO 6420 Applied Clinical Research 1
MPO 6430 Lower Limb Prosthetics II 3
MPO 6440 Advanced Prosthetics and Orthotics Technologies 3
MPO 6490 Clinical Rotation IV 1
HSC 5014 Psychosocial Aspects of Disability 3
MPO 5310 Spinal Orthotics 3
MPO 6520 Upper Extremity Prosthetics 3
MPO 6530 Practice Management and Administration in P&O 2
MPO 6590 Clinical Rotation V 1
HSC 5099/6000 Capstone or Thesis  

Master of Rehabilitation Counseling

John L. Buskey Health Sciences Center

Suite 313

(334) 229-8776 Voice

(334) 229-5884 Fax

(334) 229-8822; (800) 548-2546 (Alabama Relay TDD)

Mission/p>

The mission of the Master of Rehabilitation Counseling (MRC) Program is to prepare admitted students to become professional rehabilitation counselors who work in partnership with people with disabilities.

The primary ongoing goals of the MRC Program include:

  1. Developing and maintaining an educational curriculum focused on effective student learningand developmentin rehabilitation counseling;
  2. Preparing students to become professionals who are committed to effectively partnering with people with disabilities in achieving their maximum vocational, psychological, social, and economic independence; and
  3. Creating a multicultural learning environment that embraces empowering students to becomeprofessionals who facilitate empowerment for theirclients and community.

Objectives

  1. Expand scholastic skills for personal, occupationaland professional growth;
  2. Develop a dedication to life-long learning andcommitment to public/community service;
  3. Demonstrate professional behaviors that are congruentwith the core values and code of ethics and standards ofthe rehabilitation counseling profession;
  4. Develop and document a plan of care for a consumerwho requires counseling interventions that are appropriate to the consumer’s status and desired goals;
  5. Demonstrate management skills, including planning, organizing, supervising, delegating and practicing as a member of a multi-disciplinary team;
  6. Practice in a professional, ethical, and legal manner;
  7. Safely, reliably, effectively and efficiently perform appropriate rehabilitation counseling procedures used to assess, evaluate andcoordinate vocational services for individuals with disabilities;
  8. Utilize appropriate verbal, nonverbal and written communication with consumers, families and other healthcare providers.
  9. Serve as an advocate for the rehabilitation counseling;
  10. Participate as consumers ofevidence based research; and
  11. Acquire competence in communication skills, leadership and critical thinking.

Admission Requirements

  1. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scaleor 3.0 higher in the undergraduate major;
  2. Recent Graduate Record Examination(GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores submitted to TheMurphy Graduate School with completed application;
  3. Threeletters of recommendation from persons qualified to evaluate an applicant’s academic abilities and/or character;
  4. A completed application to The Murphy Graduate School;
  5. A completed application to the Master of Rehabilitation Counseling Program;

Please note: Students must be admitted separately to The Harold Lloyd Murphy Graduate School.

Curriculum (CORE Master of Rehabilitation Counseling Courses)

Fall, Year 1

RCOU 503 Vocational and Career Development 3
RCOU 511 Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling 3
RCOU 513 Medical Aspects of Disability 3
RCOU 515 Legal and EthicalAspects of Rehabilitation Counseling 3

Fall, Year 1

RCOU 502 Counseling Theories and Techniques 3
HSC 5014 Psychosocial Aspects of Disability 3
RCOU 518 Multi-Cultural Counseling Issues 3
RCOU 531 Job Development and Placement 3

Summer, Year 1

RCOU 524 Group Counseling 3
RCOU 533 Case Managementin Rehabilitation Counseling 3

Fall, Year 2

RCOU 611 Rehabilitation Practicum 3
RCOU 613 Assistive Technology in Rehabilitation Counseling 3
RCOU 615 Vocational Assessment and Evaluation 3
RCOU 617 Research Methods 3

Spring, Year 2

Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation Counseling

The goal of the 21-credit hour certificate is to target employed/experienced vocational rehabilitation counselors and other closely related counseling professionals for the purpose of completing required core rehabilitation counseling courses to become eligible to take the national certification (CRC) examination.

The curriculum has three core domains:

  • Counseling
  • Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Research

Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities for persons with this Certificate include State/Federal Vocational Rehabilitation programs, Department of Veterans Affairs, Disability Service Provider in Higher Education.

Admission Requirements

  • A qualifying Master’s degree from an accredited institution in either category D or category R as defined by Commission on Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRCC)
  • A completed application to the Alabama State University (ASU) Murphy Graduate School
  • Personal interview with an ASU Master of Rehabilitation Counseling program faculty member or a designated representative
  • For candidates who will be seeking to sit for the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Exam, please contact Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification at www.crccertification.com

Transfer Credit

A minimum of 15 semester hours of the graduate certificate program must be completedat ASU. A maximum of 6 semester credit hours maybe transferred from other accredited graduate programs.

Rehabilitation Counseling CertificateCurriculum (Online)21 Credit Hours Required

I. Counseling (6 hours)

RCOU 621 Rehabilitation Internship 6
RCOU 632 Human Growth and Development 3
RCOU 502 Counseling Theories and Techniques 3
RCOU 518 Multi-Cultural Counseling Issues 3

II. Rehabilitation (select 12 hours)

RCOU 502 Vocational and Career Development 3
RCOU 511 Foundations of Rehabilitation Cou 3
RCOU 513 Medical Aspects of Disability 3
HSC 5014 Psychosocial Aspects of Disability 3
RCOU 533 Case Managementin Rehabilitation Counseling 3
RCOU 615 Vocational Assessment and Evaluation 3

III. Research(3 hours)

RCOU 617 Research MethodsOR other approved RCOU course substitutions 3

Graduate Certificate inDisability Studies, Policy & Services

The goal of the 18-credit hour certificate is to provide matriculating and non-matriculating graduate students a comprehensive supplement to Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees previously granted, including those in disability-related fields e.g. Special Education, Rehabilitation Studies, or Social Work, as well as those that do not typically offer courses with disability-related content (e.g. Criminal Justice and Engineering)

The curriculum has four core domains:

  • Disability Policy
  • Administration
  • Assistive Technology
  • Accommodations

Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities for students with this Certificate include Education Administrators, Disability Service Providers in Higher Education, Equal Opportunity Program Administrators, Veterans Program Administrators, Executive or manager of Community Disability Service Programs, Disability Rights Advocates, and Educational Consultants.

Admission Requirements

  • A completed application to theAlabama State University (ASU)MurphyGraduate School and the Graduate Certificate Program in Disability Studies, Policy and Services
  • Personal interview with an ASU Master of Rehabilitation Counseling program faculty member or a designated representative
  • Applicants who are not currently enrolled in a graduate degree program at ASU must be admitted to the ASU Murphy Graduate School as non-degree students to take courses for the certificate program.

Transfer Credit

A minimum of 12 semester hours of the graduate certificate program shall be taken at ASU. A maximum of 6 semester credit hours shall be transferred from other accredited graduate programs.

Intended Students

The Certificate is open to graduate students in any discipline, as well as individuals who are post-baccalaureate or post-master’s who are not enrolled in a graduate program. Students who are not currently enrolled in a graduate degree program at ASU must be admitted to ASU Murphy Graduate School as non-degree students to take courses for the certificate program.

Graduate Certificate inDisability Studies, Policy & ServicesCurriculum (Online)18 Credit Hours Required

I. Administration(3 hours)

RCOU 618 Rehabilitation Administration 3

II. Rehabilitation(select 12 hours)

RCOU 513 Medical Aspects of Disability 3
RCOU 515 Legal and EthicalAspects of Rehabilitation Counseling 3
HSC 5014 Psychosocial Aspects of Disability 3
RCOU 613 Assistive Technology inRehabilitation Counseling 3

III. Elective(3 hours)

RCOU 511 Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling 3
RCOU 531 Job Development and Placement 3
HSC 533 Case Managementin Rehabilitation Counseling 3
RCOU 615 Vocational Assessment and Evaluation 3
RCOU 617 Research Methods 3