Program Overview

Program Overview

The University of Iowa offers a Rehabilitation Service Administration Scholars Program (RSA) through its College of Education. This program is designed to increase the supply of qualified rehabilitation counselors by providing funding and support to students pursuing a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling.

Program Details

The RSA program is a 5-year training grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Education, with a funded amount of $779,968. The program aims to support nearly 70 students over its duration, with cohorts of 7 students awarded scholarships each year. The program is fully accredited and nationally ranked, culminating in a Master's degree.

Program Description

Rehabilitation counseling is a professional counseling discipline that focuses on working collaboratively with people with disabilities to achieve their life goals. Rehabilitation counselors are equipped with specialized knowledge, skills, and attitudes to provide effective counseling services and work with diverse populations in interdisciplinary settings.

Student Supports

The RSA program provides the following supports to students:

• 4 semesters of tuition support to complete the MA in Rehabilitation Counseling
• A stipend of $4,900 per semester
• Opportunities to complete internships at qualifying agencies and fieldwork in rural communities supporting people with disabilities

Application Requirements

To be considered for the RSA program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Three letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose
• A successful interview with program faculty

Payback Information

Students supported by the RSA scholarship must complete two years of payback for every one year of funding, working for qualifying employers such as vocational rehabilitation agencies, schools, or community mental health settings serving people with disabilities.