Master of Science in Psychology: Graduate Certificate in Disability Services
Faulkner University’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers advanced degrees and certificate programs in addition to bachelor’s degree programs. The Graduate Certificate in Disability Services is a focused, non-degree option designed to accommodate working professionals. This program is offered fully online.
Founded in 1942, Faulkner University is a private, Christian liberal arts school affiliated with Churches of Christ. With a main campus in Montgomery, Alabama, the university also has satellite campuses in Mobile, Birmingham, and Huntsville. Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Disability Services program, which is offered online at Faulkner University.
Program Overview
Our Graduate Certificate in Disability Services is designed to be completed in three semesters. This certificate program is ideal for students who already hold a master's degree in psychology or another discipline but wish to undertake advanced study in disability services. It is also suitable for professionals who would benefit from graduate-level coursework but do not require a full online psychology degree. Coursework aligns with the university’s mission to glorify God through the education of the whole person, offering a caring Christian environment where graduate students can thrive. Each class in this program is taught by knowledgeable, experienced faculty members who foster engaging online learning environments.
Certificate Program Curriculum
The Graduate Certificate in Disability Services curriculum consists of five courses. Each course is a graduate-level, three-credit psychology class. These include:
- PSY 6371 Neurodiversity and Concepts of Disabilities: This course teaches students to identify and evaluate diverse learning styles and potential accommodations or support services.
- PSY 6372 Assistive Technologies in Disability Services: In this course, students gain an overview of the devices and services that can be used by individuals with disabilities in a variety of settings.
- PSY 6373 Legal and Sociocultural Aspects of Disability Services: This course offers a survey of contemporary and historical perspectives on disability, as well as relevant laws and rights.
- PSY 6374 Disability Services Administration and Application: This course explores issues, challenges, and creative solutions related to the provision of accessibility and disability services.
- PSY 6377 Autism, Intellectual, and Developmental Disabilities: In this course, students learn diagnostic criteria and interventions for autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities.
The certificate program can be completed in less than one year. Students in this program typically take six hours (two courses) in the first two semesters and three hours (one course) in the final semester.
Career Paths in Disability Services
Professionals with experience and coursework in disability services and policy may go on to work in roles such as:
- Case manager
- Employment specialist
- Support services coordinator
- Counselor
- Rehabilitation specialist
- Paraprofessional
- Social services provider
- Human resources manager
The certificate program can also serve as a starting point for students who ultimately wish to pursue an M.S. in psychology from Faulkner University. Students may be able to transfer courses from the certificate program into either of two track options for the online Master of Science in Psychology program.
Technology for Online Learning
Because students will attend classes and complete coursework online, access to appropriate technology is the key to success. Faulkner University recommends:
- A Mac or PC desktop or laptop with an up-to-date operating system
- High-speed internet (minimum 512 kilobits/second)
- Webcam for video participation (1080hd recommended)
- Up-to-date supported internet browser
- Microsoft Word or other word processing program that can generate PDFs
How to Apply
To be considered for admission to the Graduate Certificate in Disability Services program, you must first complete an online application. Next, fill out an Official Transcript Request for any colleges or universities you have previously attended. You must submit official transcripts from all institutions; printouts or photocopies will not be accepted. Transcripts can be mailed to:
Faulkner University
Attn: Graduate Enrollment
5345 Atlanta Hwy
Montgomery, AL 36109
Program Costs
The Graduate Certificate in Disability Services has an all-inclusive fee structure that includes tuition, textbooks, and other related fees. Students who prefer physical copies of textbooks can purchase these through the Faulkner University bookstore.
Tuition/Cost
The tuition for the Master in Psychology programs is “all-inclusive”, including all tuition, fees,
and textbooks/resources (electronic).
Students may purchase physical copies of textbooks at their option through the Faulkner
E-Campus bookstore.
All Inclusive Tuition (Tuition/Fees/Books):
| M.S. Psychology (General) | M.S. Psychology (Disability Services) | Certificate (Disability Services) | |
| Per Hour | $695 @ 36 hours | $695 @ 36 hours | $695 @ 15 hours |
| Fees | Included | Included | Included |
| Textbooks | Included | Included | Included |
| Total | $25,020 | $25,020 | $10,425 |
Pursue Advanced Study in Psychology at Faulkner University
Our online programs offer flexible, individualized learning while giving students the same access to the quality education available on campus. Serving students throughout Alabama and beyond, Faulkner University’s online degree and certificate programs can be completed while balancing your job, family, and other responsibilities. In addition to the Graduate Certificate in Disability Services, Faulkner University offers a Master of Science in Psychology degree that can be completed in one or two years. Students can choose from two tracks:
- Master in Psychology Degree – General Track
- Master in Psychology Degree – Disability Services Track
To learn more about graduate education at Faulkner University, request info today. Or you can apply today.