Program Overview

Introduction to the Certificate in Disability Management

The Certificate in Disability Management is a program offered by the School of Occupational Therapy at Dalhousie University. This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage disabilities in the workplace.

What is Disability Management?

Disability management involves the coordination of services to help injured or ill individuals achieve their maximum level of functioning and ability, with the ultimate goal of returning to work. Professionals in this field may work as disability case managers, insurance case managers, return to work facilitators, vocational rehabilitation consultants, vocational counselors, or employee wellness program administrators.

Benefits of the Certificate in Disability Management

The Certificate in Disability Management offers numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced costs due to work disruptions
• Enhanced employee morale and sense of belonging
• Improved manpower consistency

Who Can Take the CDM Program?

The CDM program is open to a variety of individuals, including:

• Dalhousie undergraduate students
• Students enrolled at other Canadian universities
• Graduates of Dalhousie and other universities
• Mature students in the workforce seeking formal education in disability management
• Individuals in the workforce seeking to enter the field of disability management

Why Choose Disability Management at Dal?

The Certificate in Disability Management is delivered completely online, providing students with the flexibility to complete coursework on their own schedule. Students will be connected to their instructor and classmates through discussion forums, group work, virtual presentations, and asynchronous feedback.

How Can Disability Management Complement My Degree?

The Certificate in Disability Management can enhance employability, provide expertise in a complementary field, or meet continuing education requirements for professionals in various fields, including:

• Human resources
• Kinesiology
• Sonography, diagnostic technology, medical laboratory science, or other health sciences
• Occupational therapy, physiotherapy, or therapeutic recreation

Human Resources

With a degree in human resources, the Certificate in Disability Management can provide the tools and confidence to negotiate new hires and develop return-to-work plans for employees with accommodation needs.

Kinesiology

The introductory course, DISM 3010: Introduction to Disability & Disability Management, is cross-listed as a kinesiology elective, KINE 3010. Completing the certificate can allow students to apply their knowledge of musculoskeletal health and injury to industry and workplace settings.

Health Sciences

For individuals with qualifications in sonography, diagnostic technology, medical laboratory science, or other health sciences, the Certificate in Disability Management can expand their knowledge of disability and its impact on clients. It can also provide valuable insights into creating safe workplaces.

Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, or Therapeutic Recreation

The Certificate in Disability Management can set professionals in these fields apart from their peers, providing additional expertise in workplace accommodation, graduated return to work, and other strategies. This can be valuable when applying for positions within the healthcare setting or building a private practice.

Continuing Education/PD Hours

The Disability Management courses offered through Dalhousie University may be used to meet requirements for continuing education and/or continuing professional development.

Disability Management Certification

Completion of the Certificate in Disability Management program does not certify individuals as disability managers, as the field is still developing and lacks national governing body sanction or accreditation.