Graduate Certificate in Disability Services (Cert-DS)
Faulkner University’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers a Graduate Certificate in Disability Services. A Master's in Psychology and Disability Services, and a Master’s in General Psychology are also available. This program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in disability services, social services, advocacy, business/organizations, government, and more related to disability services and inclusive access.
The complete certificate may be transferred into the M.S. in Psychology and Disability Services degree, but students must meet any additional requirements applicable to the degree.
Program Goals and Objectives
The Graduate Certificate in Disability Services is a 15 credit hour, fully online program that is completed in approximately 6 months, taking one course at a time. It provides students with an in-depth focus on the unique challenges and support systems for individuals with disabilities. The curriculum emphasizes disability perspectives, legal frameworks, and the role of technology in enhancing accessibility and care. Students will engage in critical thinking and ethical decision-making, with a focus on serving individuals with disabilities through compassion and advocacy. This flexible program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex needs of the disability community in a variety of professional settings. All courses are taught by experienced faculty who are committed to practical, Christ-centered learning and fostering a heart for service.
Also Available:
Admissions Information
Regular Admissions Requirements:
· A bachelor’s degree with at least one of the following: 2.75 cumulative GPA, 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of the bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA in the student’s major courses, or 3.0 GPA in an accredited graduate degree
· Meet Faulkner University’s general admissions requirements for graduate programs
· Approval of admission by the director and/or chair of Department of Social and Behavioral Science
Conditional Admissions Requirements:
Students not meeting the regular admissions requirements may submit any or all of the following additional items for consideration. The University conditional admission policy detailed in the graduate catalog will apply.
· Letters of recommendations from professional or academic sources
· Submission of standardized admissions exams (e.g. GRE, MAT, LSAT, etc.)
· Resume demonstrating relevant professional experience
· Other evidence indicating academic preparedness
Tuition and Fees
| Program | M.S. General Psychology | M.S. Psychology and Disability Services | Certificate in Disability Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (per hour) | $570 (x30 hours) | $570 (x30 hours) | $570 (x15 hours) |
| Online Fee (per hour) | $75 (x30 hours) | $75 (x30 hours) | $75 (x15 hours) |
| General Fee (per semester) | $350 ($250 if less than 6 hours) | $350 ($250 if less than 6 hours) | $350 ($250 if less than 6 hours) |
| Textbook fee | $195* | $195* | $195* |
| ESTIMATED TOTAL** | $20,595 | $20,595 | $10,470 |
*Additional textbooks may be required for some courses
**Plus applicable University graduation fee
Curriculum
The degree is designed to be completed in approximately 6 months, taking one 5 week course at a time. The following 5 courses totaling 15 graduate credit hours are required to complete the certificate:
PSY 6371: Neurodiversity and Concepts of Disabilities
PSY 6373: Legal and Sociocultural Aspects of Disability Services
PSY 6372: Assistive Technologies in Disability Services
PSY 6377: Autism, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
PSY 6374: Disability Services Administration and Application
Additional program details are available in the Graduate Catalog.
Technology Requirements
Technology Requirements
Students must have access to the following technology resources in order to successfully complete the program:
· Mac computer or PC that is less than five years old with storage and unrestricted access · High-speed internet and a supported Internet browser
· Windows 10 or higher
· Webcam (720p minimum; 1080hd recommended)
· Microsoft Word · Additional policies and requirements outlined in our Online Student Handbook Supplement.
Graduation Requirements
Graduation Requirements
A student who has completed all required coursework must meet the following conditions before a degree or certificate will be awarded:
· Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0
· No grade below C in any courses
· No more than two C grades in the program of study
· Pay applicable graduation fees
· No holds on any financial accounts
Please note: Students may retake a course up to two times to earn a passing grade.
How to Apply
To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Disability Services, submit a completed online application with all required supplemental materials. Additionally, you will need to fill out an Official Transcript Request form and submit it to any schools you previously attended with the appropriate fee. All transcripts should be mailed to:
Faulkner University Attn: Graduate Enrollment 5345 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 36109
All applicants must submit:
- A complete graduate application
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- A short personal essay in APA format addressing the following:
- Why do you want to pursue this degree? How will it fit with your personal or career goals?
- How is a degree from a Christian university such as Faulkner a good fit for you
- (consider Faulkner’s mission statement Our Mission: Your Success in your answer)?
- How have you navigated challenges that have come in your life, academics, career, etc. What do you anticipate may be the most difficult adjustment you will need to make as you pursue this degree?
- What is one thing about yourself you wish everybody knew, but you are often reluctant to share?
Pursue an Certificate in Disability Services
At Faulkner University, students can take the next step in their liberal arts education through a Christian lens. In addition to the Certificate in Disability Services, the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers a Masters in General Psychology, as well as a Masters in General Psychology and Disability Services. To find out more about our psychology degree programs, request information or apply online today.