Troy receives $2.8M to expand rehabilitation + counseling programs
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Troy University has been awarded three federal grants from the U.S. Department of Education to strengthen and expand its Rehabilitation Counseling and Rehabilitation and Disability Studies programs.
The three grants total $2.875 million. The funding is expected to provide full tuition scholarships and stipends for approximately 100 students over the next five years, creating more professionals to serve individuals with disabilities and mental illness across the country.
The programs hope to directly address a nationwide shortage of qualified rehabilitation professionals and counselors in state and community vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies.
“These awards allow Troy University to invest directly in students who are passionate about serving others. Our goal is to prepare highly skilled professionals who will help individuals with disabilities achieve independence, employment and inclusion in their communities.”
Dr. Rodney J. Maiden, associate professor in Troy University’s Department of Counseling, Rehabilitation and Interpreter Training
Rehabilitation Counseling and Rehabilitation and Disability Studies
Roughly $2 million will go to support Troy University’s Rehabilitation Counseling Education (RCE) Program, which offers a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling.
Over the five-year grant period, at least 30 graduate trainees will receive full tuition scholarships per grant. The program provides academic and practical training to prepare rehabilitation counselors for public service and encourages collaboration across related disciplines.
In addition to its core curriculum, the RCE Program offers five academic concentrations:
- Clinical Rehabilitation
- Public and Community Rehabilitation
- Rehabilitation and Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Services
- Counseling Military Populations
- Addictions Counseling
The coursework is offered fully online, allowing students from across the country to participate while balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
“This program gives us the ability to recruit students from any state. It’s an incredible opportunity to expand access to quality rehabilitation education and to reach those who want to make a difference.”
Dr. Rodney J. Maiden, associate professor in Troy University’s Department of Counseling, Rehabilitation and Interpreter Training
The third grant, totaling $875,000, will support the undergraduate Rehabilitation and Disability Studies Program by providing full tuition scholarships for at least 30 students earning bachelor’s degrees in the field.
The program prepares students for entry-level roles in both public and private rehabilitation settings and offers options for minors in applied behavior analysis, case management, criminal justice, interpreter (ASL) training, medical aspects and military operations.
“These programs work together to create a pipeline of well-trained professionals ready to meet the needs of vocational rehabilitation agencies. We’re developing both undergraduate and graduate pathways that ensure our students are prepared to serve effectively in Alabama and beyond.”
Dr. Joshua D. Southwick
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