Rehabilitation counselors empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their life goals by assisting them to identify their strengths, build on their assets, enhance their abilities, and effectively adapt to the environments in which they function. If you are looking for a career with a high level of personal satisfaction and the ability to transform others’ lives, Rehabilitation Counseling may be the path for you.
At Assumption, we have designed an accelerated program to enable students to complete both their BA and MA in only five years, saving you a year’s worth of time and tuition and getting you out into the workforce sooner!
Apply as a high school senior into the dual degree program with one application and benefit from being considered for a $2,500 Dual Degree Scholarship (per year for your 4 undergraduate years). You will also be considered for a $1,000 Dual Degree Scholarship for every term you are enrolled at least part time in your graduate program at Assumption.
There is a great need for Rehabilitation Counselors and our graduates are aggressively recruited by rehabilitation and human services agencies throughout New England and the United States, many being hired prior to graduation.
If you are considering a career in rehabilitation or one of the helping professions which requires an understanding of disability and counseling, the Rehabilitation Counseling program at Assumption University provides you with a supportive environment, small classes, and an exceptional faculty to help you achieve your career goals, all backed by a 50 year legacy of success.
Learn more about the graduate Rehabilitation Counseling program.
Ahlajuwon Spencer
Human Services 2018
Vocational Counselor, The New England Center for Children
“My internship at The New England Center for Children was a wonderful experience. I gained knowledge in specific areas of applied behavior analysis (ABA) throughout my internship. I learned how to efficiently run task analysis as well as preference assessments with students. I also enjoyed learning about the clinical aspect of ABA.”
Madeline Burton
Human Services 2018
SCO Case Manager, BayPath Elder Services
“The material I learned in the Human Services courses greatly prepared me for my internship. I applied what Assumption taught me and was able to learn more about the administrative and advocacy side of human services. Getting involved in various programs on campus and completing my internship were definitely highlights of my Assumption experience.”
Abigail Gogdon
Human Services 2018
ABA Therapist, Behavior Concepts Inc. / Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis
“Assumption taught me to build connections and to apply theoretical frameworks to meaningful practice I am so grateful to the HSRS department, and especially to Dr. Pica-Smith. She has been an inspiration for myself and others, as she cultivates an inclusive learning environment that reaches beyond campus, and puts principle into action.”
Chantal Jordan
Human Services 2018
Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology, Boston University
“The close-knit community, small classes, and caring professors foster a great learning environment. The courses I took at Assumption helped me to integrate knowledge from class with skills I learned in my internship. The theoretical and the practical were brought together to create a real and profound learning experience. ”
Katelin Riley
Human Services 2018
Residential Counselor, The Bridge of Central Massachusetts
“The classes I took and the professors I had greatly prepared me to be successful at my internship. Professor Pica-Smith was one of my most influential professors- she taught me so much. I was able to jump right in at The Bridge of Central Massachusetts and felt like I really understood what was going on around me. ”
Tyron Thompson
Human Services 2018
Pursuing a Doctorate of Chiropractic, University of Bridgeport
“I thrived at Assumption because I got involved and there are so many opportunities to do just that! At my internship, I learned how to effectively interact with athletes from all backgrounds as well as various rehabilitation techniques and methods. I was successful because of Assumption being a very social community. I carried that social aspect over to my internship.”
Lily Dolyak
Human Services 2018
Obtaining a Master’s Degree in Social Work, Simmons College
“Assumption gave me confidence and taught me to take initiative, which is what College is all about. As a result, I was able to take on a bigger leadership role in my internship. The people you meet here will be your biggest supporters. The professors are readily available and classmates share the same types of passion, so everyone builds each other up.”
Bryanna Veroneau
Human Services 2018
Pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Elon University
“I received a very well rounded education at Assumption College and have become a better person. My experiences at the College have helped me with my success because it gave me the tools I needed to enter the workforce. I learned great communication skills and was provided with a thorough knowledge of the human anatomy.”
Erin Jovan
Human Services 2018
Pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
“Assumption is a place where great growth happens and where you will be part of a community. I’ve learned really important life skills that can be transferable to not only my personal life, but to my professional career as well. Some of the best years of a student's life will be spent here, so get involved! ”
Danielle Driscoll
Human Services BA 2014 / MBA 2015
AmeriCorps National Member Construction Crew Leader, Habitat for Humanity / Pursuing a Master of Business Administration, Assumption College
“I strongly value my education and how it opened my eyes to the joy of helping others. The service opportunity trips I was involved in showed me the value of service and are the reason I chose my course of study. All students should be involved and take advantage of every opportunity the University offers.”
Anthony Manzi
Human Services 2017
Assistant Area Coordinator, Brandeis University
“Assumption has given me the opportunity to become passionate about something I never expected. Through enriching courses, challenging leadership positions, and supportive faculty and staff, I found a passion in higher education and I found success in the classroom. Faculty and staff became my mentors and my inspiration, and they stood behind me every step of the way.”
Claire Keating
Human Services 2017
Social Worker, Department of Children and Families
“I was able to confidently walk into a full-time position as a social worker right after I graduated. My full-time internship at Worcester's Department of Children and Families guided my career goals. This opportunity wouldn't have been possible without Assumption College and the Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies internship program.”
Christina Benoit
Human Services 2017
Case Manager, Elder Services of Worcester
“The human services coursework was extremely valuable and set me up to be successful. I learned how to communicate effectively and use the skills I learned in the classroom. I feel Assumption fully prepared me to enter into my career as a Case Manager for the Elder Services of Worcester.”
Maya Ahluwalia
Human Services 2017
Pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of New England
“My professors provided me with a phenomenal education. The Assumption faculty taught me how to serve people with disabilities and ailments. In my final semester, I was able to apply these skills and broaden my clinical experience at my internship for Central Mass Physical Therapy and Wellness.”
Madison Shropshire
Human Services 2017
Intern, Assumption College Sports Medicine
“The small class sizes provided me with individual attention and an engaging learning experience. Through my internship, I learned how to apply treatment therapies and physical rehabilitation with student-athletes. This experience gave me essential hands-on learning under professional athletic trainer supervision.”
Isaac Brobbey
Human Services 2019
Youth Futures International - Internship in Ghana
“Assumption offers all the resources to make one’s dreams become reality. Students reach their highest potential here. I want to build and improve healthcare systems in developing countries, so I was able to complete my internship in my home country, Ghana, where l left six years ago. This is undoubtedly a dream I have always hoped for.”
Leah Cayer
Human Services 2019
School Counseling Intern, St. Peter-Marian High School
“As an HSRS major, I participated in a 400 hour internship. My interviewing techniques class helped me get the interview at St. Peter-Marian High School in addition to Professor Sabelli who advocated for me. Take advantage of all the opportunities and resources that are available to you!”
Alexander Richardson
Human Services 2019
Community Relations Assistant, Worcester Red Sox
“I want to give back to the community and give back to the youth since they are the next generation. I want to help youths ideally through sports. Whatever I can do to help people is what I want to pursue for a career. Through Assumption’s partnership with the Red Sox minor league baseball team, I’ve been given this opportunity.”
Olivia Thompson
Human Services 2020
Clinic Intern, Barrett Family Wellness Center; Pursuing Master of Science in Speech and Language Pathology at MGH Institute of Health Professions
“Assumption was the best decision I’ve made and couldn’t imagine choosing anywhere else. The HSRS department was very helpful in securing my internship by conducting meetings about how to start the interview process and then facilitating the internship course. The sense of support from all members of the community made Assumption feel like home for four years.”
Kelly O'Laughlin
Human Services 2020
Intern, Flagg Street Elementary School
“Assumption provided me with an education and the skills needed to be prepared for my internship. The skills I learned in the classroom helped me navigate challenges and triumphs during my internship. Professors are influential and supportive and are also excellent sources for advice about post-graduation plans. ”
Kendra Sloan
Human Services 2016
Level 2 Teacher, New England Center for Children
“From day one as a transfer student, I felt welcomed on campus. My sophomore “pod mates” in a Worcester dorm became six of my best friends. Each professor made a point to get to know me too, by name and face, which really made me feel welcomed.”
Kathryn Morgan
Human Services 2020
Direct Care Position, Jeremiah's Inn
“Prior to graduating, I was hired at the same place where I completed my internship. Assumption helped shape me into the passionate and driven person I am. The diverse course offerings and driven, passionate professors helped guide me in exploring various human services professions. I can truly say Assumption will be there to help you find your passion. ”
Anaclariza Rivera, MRC, CRC
Accelerated BA/Rehabilitation Counseling M.A. Dual Degree Program 2022
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor I, Office of Rehabilitation of RI
“Being an Assumption University graduate has opened many doors. My Assumption experience helped be become certified as soon as I graduated the program and has set me apart in my workplace. My experience provided me an increased knowledge on the world of rehabilitation and the many different tools/opportunities available. ”
Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost
We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.