Master of Science [M.S] (Rehabilitation Counseling)
Field of Study:
$10,252 /Yr
San Diego State University Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling is a two-and-a-half to three-year graduate program totalling 60 credit units. Students study on campus or via distance learning mode. International students require minimum GPA 3.0, English language proficiency (TOEFL 80 or IELTS 6.5 minimum), and clinical observation hours. Total programme cost ranges from US$112,690 to US$121,500 (INR 10.73 Lakhs to INR 11.58 Lakhs) including tuition, fees, health insurance, and living expenses. Fall intake begins September each year.
This programme trains rehabilitation counselling professionals to support individuals with disabilities in achieving employment and independent living goals. SDSU’s program ranks 7th nationally and aligns with Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification standards. The curriculum includes specialization options in cognitive disabilities, rehabilitation technology, and psychiatric rehabilitation. Indian applicants benefit from strong H-1B sponsorship by employers in healthcare and non-profit sectors.
- Ranked 7th in the US for rehabilitation counselling education by US News and World Report.
- Flexible on-campus and fully online delivery options with identical programme outcomes.
- CRCC-aligned curriculum enables CRC credential and LPCC licensure eligibility in California.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Closed. International student priority deadline was March 1, 2026; final deadline was April 15, 2026. Apply now for Fall 2027 (opens September 2026).
Indian applicants should initiate WES transcript evaluation immediately to meet the March 2027 priority deadline. Document translation and credential evaluation typically require 4-6 weeks.
Also Check: San Diego State University Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling Admission
San Diego State University Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling Fees and Living Costs 2026
SDSU charges non-resident (international) tuition at $471 per unit and professional program fees at $303 per unit for the 60-unit programme.
| Fee Component | Per Unit (USD) | 60-Unit Total (USD) | INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Resident Tuition | $471 | $28,260 | INR 2,69,148 |
| Professional Program Fees | $303 | $18,180 | INR 1,73,221 |
| Health Insurance (per year) | — | $2,500 x 2.5 years | INR 59,575 |
| Campus Fees (per semester) | — | Approx. $1,500 | INR 14,289 |
| Total Academic Costs (2.5 Years) | — | $50,440 | INR 4,81,233 |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.26 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- Tuition increases by 2-3% annually for continuing students and new cohorts.
- Online learners and on-campus students pay identical tuition and fees.
- International students are not eligible for California state resident tuition waivers.
- Payment plans available through SDSU Bursar’s Office with no additional interest for full-time students.
Cost of Living in San Diego for Rehabilitation Counseling Master’s Students
San Diego’s monthly living costs for graduate students average $2,000 USD.
| Expense Category | Monthly (USD) | 30 Months Total (USD) | INR Equivalent (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared apartment) | $900 | $27,000 | INR 85,734 |
| Groceries and Dining | $400 | $12,000 | INR 38,104 |
| Utilities (electric, water, internet) | $200 | $6,000 | INR 19,052 |
| Transport and Phone | $150 | $4,500 | INR 14,289 |
| Books and Classroom Supplies | $200 | $6,000 | INR 19,052 |
| Personal and Miscellaneous | $150 | $4,500 | INR 14,289 |
| Monthly Total | $2,000 | $60,000 (2.5 yrs) | INR 1,91,420 |
Key Insight: San Diego is 25% cheaper than Silicon Valley but 15% pricier than inland California cities. Shared graduate student housing near campus reduces rent by 20-30% compared to studios.
San Diego State University Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling Admission 2026
SDSU admits approximately 30-40 students per cohort (on-campus and online combined). Fall 2026 admissions closed April 15, 2026. Fall 2027 applications open September 1, 2026.
| Intake | Priority Deadline | Final Deadline | Typical Decision Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 (Current) | March 1, 2026 | April 15, 2026 | May 2026 (Closed) |
| Fall 2027 | March 1, 2027 | April 15, 2027 | May 2027 (Expected) |
| Spring 2027 (Limited) | October 15, 2026 | November 15, 2026 | December 2026 (Expected) |
- All materials must arrive at SDSU by the final deadline; late submissions are not reviewed.
- International students notified by email through the Slate applicant portal.
- Offer letters valid for 30 days only; students must confirm intent within this window.
Academic Eligibility
SDSU requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in all previous university coursework; competitive applicants hold 3.5+. Undergraduate degree in any field qualifies; no prerequisite courses required.
| Requirement | Minimum | Competitive | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cumulative GPA | 3.0 | 3.5+ | Convert Indian % or CGPA to 4.0 scale; WES does this automatically. |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required | 4-year degree preferred | 3-year Indian degrees accepted if 60+ credits in first two years. |
| Letters of Recommendation | 3 required | Academic + Professional mix | Professors, supervisors, or counsellors. Email submission via Slate. |
| Relevant Work/Volunteer Experience | Preferred, not required | 6+ months in healthcare, counselling, disability services | Community service, NGO work, or disability advocacy counts. |
San Diego State University is ranked 117th nationally by US News and World Report. The Rehabilitation Counseling programme specifically ranks 7th among all accredited rehabilitation counselling master’s programmes in the United States.
English Language Proficiency (ELP)
All international applicants must prove English proficiency through an approved standardized test.
- TOEFL iBT: minimum score 80 overall; reading 19, writing 20, speaking 20, listening 19.
- IELTS: minimum band 6.5 overall; no single band below 6.0.
- Duolingo English Test: minimum score 105.
- PTE Academic: minimum score 58.
Tip for Indian Students: IELTS is widely offered across India; TOEFL iBT is accessed online. Most Indian applicants score 7.0-7.5 on IELTS with 3-4 months of focused preparation. TOEFL is identical online and offline; no test-centre advantage exists.
San Diego State University Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling Application 2027
The application process involves two platforms: Cal State Apply (state-wide system) and Slate (SDSU programme-specific). Total preparation time from start to submission averages 6-8 weeks for Indian applicants (including credential evaluation).
| Stage | Deadline (Fall 2027) | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WES Transcript Evaluation (Start Now) | By December 2026 | Submit official transcripts to WES; 7-10 business days for evaluation. Order 2-3 copies. |
| Cal State Apply Registration & Submission | March 1, 2027 (Priority) | Create Cal State Apply account, complete demographic form, upload WES report. Fee: $70. |
| Slate Programme Application | March 15, 2027 (Priority) | Receive Slate link via email within 72 hours of Cal State Apply submission. Complete resume, essays, and request LOR submissions. |
| Letters of Recommendation | April 1, 2027 (Final) | Recommenders submit directly via Slate link. Follow up with them by email weekly. |
| All Supporting Documents | April 15, 2027 (Final) | Verify WES report received by SDSU. Final deadline; late submissions rejected. |
| Final Deadline (Cal State Apply) | April 15, 2027 (Final) | All sections and materials locked at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. |
- Cal State Apply is the official portal for all CSU master’s programmes; no programme applies directly.
- Slate is SDSU’s supplemental platform for essays, recommendations, and document upload.
- Application fee is non-refundable even if you withdraw.
- Decision notifications arrive via email by May 31, 2027.
Application Tip: Indian applicants should initiate WES evaluation by September 2026 to avoid delays. Recommenders in India often require 2-3 reminders; assign a specific deadline (1 week before Slate closes) and provide them the direct link.
San Diego State University Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling Scholarships 2026
SDSU offers limited merit-based funding for graduate students. Approximately 5-8% of incoming rehabilitation counselling cohorts receive awards.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | INR Equivalent | Eligibility (International Students) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Graduate Research Fellowship | Up to $420/unit (max $5,040/year) | INR 4.80 Lakhs per year | All matriculated graduate students; must maintain 3.5+ GPA and engage in faculty research. |
| John J. Cleary Endowed Scholarship (International) | $2,000–$5,000 | INR 1.90-4.77 Lakhs | International graduate students in good standing; essay-based selection. |
| SDSU Aztec Scholarship (General Merit) | $1,000–$3,000 | INR 95,260–2.86 Lakhs | All graduate students; application opens March 9, 2026 for 2026-27 awards. |
- Scholarships are awarded competitively; receipt does not guarantee award or renewal.
- Fellowship tuition waivers reduce net cost by 10-25% if awarded.
- Applications open March 9, 2026 on the Aztec Scholarships portal.
Scholarship Reality: 5-8% of cohorts receive awards covering 10-25% of tuition. International students compete on GPA, TOEFL/IELTS score, and demonstration of research interest. Assume full self-funding; scholarships are a bonus, not guaranteed.
Read More: San Diego State University Scholarships for International Students
San Diego State University Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling Salary 2026
Rehabilitation counsellors in the United States earn a median salary of $46,110 annually according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level positions (0-2 years) offer $34,480–$45,000 gross; mid-career (5+ years) reach $60,000–$77,200.
| Career Stage | Annual Salary (USD) | INR Equivalent | Common Employer Sector |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years post-graduation) | $34,480–$45,000 | INR 32.86–42.87 Lakhs | Non-profit organizations, state vocational rehabilitation agencies, community centers. |
| Mid-Career (3-5 years) | $48,000–$60,000 | INR 45.75–57.16 Lakhs | Hospital systems, private rehabilitation firms, disability services contractors. |
| Senior/Management (5+ years) | $65,000–$77,200 | INR 61.92–73.58 Lakhs | Programme leadership, agency administration, clinical supervision, consulting. |
| Median (All Levels, 2023 data) | $46,110 | INR 43.93 Lakhs | United States (all sectors combined). |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Rehabilitation Counselors (2023).
- Take-home salary varies 20-30% by state income tax; California’s top rate is 13.3%, reducing net by approximately $3,000–$5,000 annually.
- Non-profit employers typically offer 10-15% lower salaries but stronger work-life balance and loan forgiveness programmes.
- Federal employer programmes (Veterans Administration, Department of Labor) pay 10-20% above median.
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRC) credential holders earn 8-12% salary premium over non-certified counsellors.
ROI Reality: Total 2.5-year programme cost is $112,690 (INR 10.73 Lakhs). Entry-level salary of $40,000 (INR 38.10 Lakhs) breaks even in 2.8 years. Mid-career earnings exceed cost within 18 months, making this programme cost-effective for long-term career planning.
Check Out: Cost of Living in the United States for Indian Students
United States Visa Rehabilitation Counseling Master’s Students 2026
International students obtain an F-1 student visa valid for the duration of studies plus up to 60 days after programme completion. Post-graduation work authorisation in the US lasts 12 months for this degree (standard STEM extension not applicable).
- F-1 student visa covers tuition, living costs, and employment on-campus up to 20 hours/week.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorises 12 months full-time work after graduation without employer sponsorship.
- Change of status from F-1 to H-1B (skilled worker visa) requires employer sponsorship; non-profit employers frequently sponsor international rehabilitation counsellors.
- Dependents (spouse, children) may accompany on F-2 visa but cannot work; plan annual costs of $8,000–$12,000 per dependent.
Visa Reality: F-1 visa processing takes 5-7 weeks post-I-20 issuance. Plan to apply 6 weeks before programme start. OPT work authorisation is automatic upon degree conferral; no additional sponsorship required. H-1B sponsorship success for rehabilitation counsellors is 80%+ due to employer demand in healthcare and non-profit sectors.
Read More: United States Student Visa for Indian Applicants
San Diego State University Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling Ranking 2026
SDSU’s Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling ranks 7th among all accredited rehabilitation counselling programmes in the United States, according to US News and World Report’s 2026 rankings.
| Ranking Metric | SDSU Rehabilitation Counselling MS | Context |
|---|---|---|
| US News National Rank (Rehabilitation Counselling) | 7th | Among ~50 accredited master’s programmes nationwide. |
| Regional Accreditation | WSCUC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) | Guarantees credit transfer and employer recognition across North America. |
| Programme-Level Accreditation | Aligned with CRCC (Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification) standards | Graduates eligible for CRC credential examination without additional coursework. |
| University Overall Rank (US News 2026) | 117th nationally | Tier 1 research university; Carnegie Classification: Highest Research Activity. |
- Ranking reflects peer assessment, placement outcomes, and employer reputation surveys.
- Top 10 rehabilitation counselling programmes are highly selective; SDSU admits 30-40 students annually across both on-campus and online modalities.
- CRCC alignment ensures all graduates meet certification requirements; 75%+ of SDSU graduates pass CRC exam on first attempt.
Key Insight: A 7th-ranked programme carries significant weight with employers and licensing boards. Graduates from top-10 programmes command 5-10% salary premiums and face faster advancement to supervisory roles. Employer preference for SDSU graduates is particularly strong among California and Southwest US non-profit and public sector employers.
Master of Science Rehabilitation Counseling at San Diego State University FAQs
Ques. Is the SDSU Rehabilitation Counseling MS offered online, and do online graduates have the same degree as on-campus students?
Ans. Yes, SDSU offers both on-campus and fully online delivery options for the 60-unit MS in Rehabilitation Counseling. Both cohorts complete identical curriculum, take the same CRC exam, and receive the same diploma. No notation distinguishes online from on-campus degrees. Completion time is 2.5–3 years for both modalities.
Ques. What is the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) credential, and can I obtain it after SDSU graduation?
Ans. The CRC is a national credential issued by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) and required for licensure in most US states. SDSU’s MS programme is CRCC-aligned, meaning all coursework satisfies CRC exam eligibility requirements. You are eligible to take the CRC exam upon graduation without additional courses. Exam cost is approximately $500. Passing rates for SDSU graduates are 75%+ on the first attempt.
Ques. Does SDSU offer a clinical rehabilitation counseling concentration, and does it lead to California LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) licensure?
Ans. Yes. SDSU offers a Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling concentration meeting California’s 60-unit education requirement for LPCC licensure. Upon graduation with this concentration, you qualify to pursue California LPCC licensure after 2,000 hours of supervised clinical work (typically 1–1.5 years). The standard (non-clinical) concentration does not satisfy LPCC requirements but qualifies for CRC certification and general rehabilitation counselor roles.
Ques. What are the specialization options within the Rehabilitation Counseling MS, and are they available online?
Ans. SDSU offers three specialization areas for on-campus students: Cognitive Disabilities, Rehabilitation Technology, and Psychiatric Rehabilitation. Online students follow the core curriculum without specialization, receiving the MS in Rehabilitation Counseling with no distinction noted on the diploma. Additionally, certificates in Co-Occurring Disorders and Psychiatric Rehabilitation are available to all students (on-campus and online) as add-on credentials upon request.
Ques. What is the job outlook for rehabilitation counselors post-graduation, and what sectors hire most SDSU graduates?
Ans. Job growth for rehabilitation counselors is 11% through 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations (US Bureau of Labor Statistics). SDSU graduates work primarily in non-profit disability agencies, community mental health centers, state vocational rehabilitation programmes, and hospital rehabilitation departments. A significant number pursue federal employment with the Veterans Administration and Department of Labor. California’s strong disability services sector and union-backed non-profit landscape create a high-demand hiring environment for SDSU graduates.
This programme is ideal for students committed to disability advocacy and empowerment-focused career paths. The strong ranking, flexible delivery, and CRCC alignment make SDSU an accessible entry point to a stable, growing profession with meaningful social impact. Cost recovery is achievable within three years of work.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $10252 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Food | $6706 |
| Housing | $12806 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $9608 |
Important Dates
Scores Required
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