Empowering Lives Through Technology: Inside Ohio State’s Online Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Certificate

Technology plays a transformative role in the lives of individuals with disabilities—and at The Ohio State University, students can become leaders in this space through the Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Certificate. Whether you’re an aspiring professional or a seasoned expert in health care, engineering, or education, this online certificate can expand your impact, sharpen your skills, and open new doors in a growing field. 

We sat down with Dr. Carmen P. DiGiovine, PhD ATP/SMS RET RESNA Fellow and Program Director of the Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Certificate program at Ohio State, to explore what makes this program unique and why it might be the right choice for you. 

What is the Assistive Rehabilitative Technology Certificate program and who is it for?

“This online program at Ohio State is available at both undergraduate and graduate levels,” says Dr. DiGiovine. “It’s designed for professionals and future professionals interested in technology that supports individuals with disabilities.” 

Students can choose the track that best fits their background.  

• The undergraduate certificate introduces core concepts in assistive and rehabilitation technology, ideal for those entering the field or someone still working on their undergraduate degree.  

• The graduate certificate, meanwhile, is geared toward working professionals who want to apply these concepts directly in clinical, educational, or engineering settings and someone that has completed or who is currently in a graduate degree program.  

Explore a flexible, relevant curriculum

The Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology certificate curriculum is structured to provide you with both foundational knowledge and customizable depth. 

“There are five courses,” DiGiovine explains. “Everyone starts with Introduction to Assistive Technology, which sets the stage for four specialty areas: augmentative and alternative communication, computers and control systems, seating and wheeled mobility, and adapted sports technologies.” 

You will select three specialty courses and can finish the program in as little as two semesters, with the flexibility to move at your own pace—perfect for working professionals.  

A virtual lab experience, anywhere you are 

One of the standout features of the ARTC program is its Virtual Assistive Technology Lab, which bridges the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application—no travel required.

“The lab allows students to experience the OSU Wexner Medical Center’s Assistive Technology Center remotely,” says Dr. DiGiovine. “They’re immersed in a simulated clinical setting where they can explore equipment, observe assessments, and gain insight into how assistive technology is applied in real life.”

This virtual environment is especially valuable for students located across the country who want hands-on exposure without needing to relocate or take time off work. It’s not just a video library or passive content. Students engage with interactive materials, demonstrations, and case-based learning modules that replicate the problem-solving and decision-making they’d encounter in a clinical or educational setting.

The Virtual Lab experience helps:

• Build student confidence in applying assistive technology concepts
  
• Reinforce skills in device selection, assessment, and customization
  
• Prepare students to translate these skills to their own communities, workplaces, or clinical settings

“Students consistently tell us that the Virtual Lab makes the coursework feel more tangible,” DiGiovine explains. “It’s easier to see how everything connects when they can visualize and interact with the technology being discussed.”

This immersive learning component sets the ARTC program apart—combining the convenience of online learning with the depth of real-world exposure.  

Career impact and certification readiness 

A major draw of the this online assistive technology certification program is how well it prepares students for Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) and Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS) certifications through RESNA. 

“We designed the program using the RESNA code of ethics and standards,” DiGiovine says. “We even based our curriculum on the ATP exam outline, then expanded it to cover innovations like artificial intelligence and virtual reality.” 

Graduates can pursue careers in: 

• Complex rehabilitation technology 

• Education systems (K–12 and higher ed) 

• Engineering and product design 

• Rehabilitation counseling 

• Research and advocacy 

“Whether you’re working in a school, clinic, or engineering firm, this certificate gives you a competitive edge,” he adds.  

Accessibility and real-world relevance 

Inclusivity is more than a goal—it’s a guiding principle. The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and experiences. 

“We practice what we teach,” says DiGiovine. “Our faculty work directly with students to identify and address accessibility needs. And many of our students with disabilities have gone on to make significant impacts in the field.” 

The program also helps students connect theory with action. From internships with wheelchair suppliers to clinical fellowships, the students in the assistive technology program are applying what they learn in ways that change lives.  

Why choose Ohio State’s Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Certificate program? 

What sets this program apart?

“It’s the people,” DiGiovine says. “We’re clinicians, engineers, educators, and researchers, and we bring that real-world experience to the classroom.” 

Through innovative technology, cross-disciplinary education, and a focus on community impact, the online assistive technology certificate reflects Ohio State’s broader mission in health and rehabilitation sciences—to improve lives through science and technology.  

Ready to make an impact? 

Whether you’re looking to advance in your current field or break into the world of assistive technology, Ohio State’s online Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Certificate provides the tools, training, and flexibility to help you succeed. Connect with an advisor today or start your application for the undergrad program or the graduate program. Your future advancement in the rehabilitative technology field awaits.