Cognitive Disabilities
Advanced Certificate
The Certificate in Cognitive Disabilities is designed for current and aspiring rehabilitation counselors who are, or intend to become, providers of vocational and independent living services on behalf of persons with cognitive disabilities, including those with autistic spectrum disorders, intellectual disability, acquired brain injuries, and learning disabilities. The Certificate in Cognitive Disabilities prepares rehabilitation counselors to work in the State/Federal Vocational Rehabilitation System, the United States Department of Veteran Affairs, California Regional Centers or other government agencies supporting persons with cognitive disabilities, nonprofit community rehabilitation provider agencies, and student disability service programs of community colleges and universities.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with demonstrated experience in disability-related work and/or academic coursework. Students do not need to be enrolled in the SDSU Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling Program to enroll in the certificate program.
Required Courses
- ARP 645 - Assessment in Rehabilitation
- ARP 687 - Placement Practices with Individuals with Disabilities
- ARP 612 - Skills, Resources, and Programs in Cognitive Disabilities
- ARP 609 - Advanced Seminar in Administration, Rehabilitation, and Postsecondary Education: Cognitive Disabilities
- ARP 685a - Medical and Psychological Aspects of Disabilities
- ARP 745 - Internship in Rehabilitation
The Advanced Seminar (ARP 609) and ARP 612 (Skills, Resources, and Programs in Cognitive Disabilities) are focused specifically on cognitive disabilities. ARP 609 and ARP 612 are available in alternating spring semesters, so that each course is offered once every two years. The remaining existing courses are offered annually. Students will complete 225 hours of internship by taking one 3-unit ARP 745 course. The internship will be completed in a rehabilitation agency supporting persons with cognitive disabilities.
Students must complete 18 units with a 3.0 (B) grade point average. Students in the certificate program will complete 12 units of formal coursework, 3 units of practicum, and 3 units of internship as described below, unless the program advisor approves alternative courses. Major assignments in all courses will focus on rehabilitation and cognitive disabilities, and the culminating assignment will be a comprehensive portfolio of work completed during the certificate.
Only three units of coursework with a grade of "C" will count towards the certificate. A maximum of three units of coursework can be repeated.
How to Apply
Important Dates for Fall 2026
| Item | Due Date |
|---|---|
| 1. Cal State Apply application (opens October 1 each year) |
April 1, 2026 |
| 2. Interfolio program application | April 15, 2026 |
| 3. Official transcripts due | April 15, 2026 |
Application Instructions
Step 1: Submit Cal State Apply Application to SDSU
The first steps must be completed through the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. See steps 1-4 on SDSU Graduate Fall Steps to Apply.
Cal State Apply - Opens Oct. 1
Step 2: Submit Official Transcripts
After you submit your Cal State Apply application, send Official Transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended to SDSU. Continue to monitor your email account for correspondance from SDSU.
Step 3: Submit the Program Application & Supplemental Materials
In addition to your university application (above), you must complete a Program Application to the certificate program. This includes uploading supplemental documents.
Gather Required Items
Gather the items below and have them ready to upload to the Interfolio program application:
- Resume/CV: Upload a copy of your current resume or Curriculum Vitae.
- Statement of Purpose: The 1-2 page letter of application should describe your interest in the Certificate, why you want to pursue it, and what you hope to do upon completion of the program.