Current Trends and Characteristics of Required Undergraduate Rehabilitation Curriculum

Abstract

Whether attempting to meet accreditation curricular standards or not, undergraduate rehabilitation programs retain great flexibility within their curriculum. This malleability allows for courses and content specifically tailored to the local labor market and student characteristics and interests. This study sought to explore the similarities and differences within required coursework between undergraduate rehabilitation education programs across the United States, establishing what is universal to rehabilitation programs and those content areas or programmatic characteristics that distinguish one from another. A total of 40 programs were identified and 34 programs were included in the study. Although there was consistency within the coursework in some expected areas (most notably employment, case management, and interviewing skills), the versatility in other areas and program characteristics demonstrate the flexibility and uniqueness possible within this discipline and educational level. Results and recommendations for stakeholders and researchers are outlined.