Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Graduate Certificate
October 1, 2025
January 12, 2026
Focusing on the application of science and technology to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities.
The online Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology graduate certificate program focuses on the application of science and technology to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities. Students will have an opportunity to learn about assistive technology and rehabilitative technology, and the role of technology in the lives of individuals who benefit from those technologies.
The ARTC program is also offered at the undergraduate level to accommodate individuals seeking an educational pathway to develop or expand their skills with assistive and rehabilitation technology.
The Graduate Academic Certificate Program is designed for
- Individuals who are looking for a post-professional certificate to set themselves apart in their current job or in future employment
- Graduate-level degree seeking students currently enrolled in engineering, health sciences or special education program
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers we hope you find helpful. Please know that our team of Academic Enrollment Advisors are always ready to connect and answer any questions that are specific to your unique needs.
- Eligible for admission to the Graduate School at Ohio State University as evidenced by:
- A baccalaureate or professional degree (or equivalent foreign credential) from an accredited college or university, earned by the expected date of entry into the certificate program;
- A minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for the last degree earned;
- For international applicants and those who have held the status of U.S. permanent resident for less than one year from the first day of the first term of enrollment and are not currently an Ohio State graduate student, submission of TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- Currently enrolled as a degree-seeking student in a graduate program at Ohio State University.
Domestic and international applicants are eligible for this certificate.
Ohio State’s online undergraduate assistive certificate is primarily designed for current rehabilitation technicians or students who are enrolled in an undergraduate engineering, health sciences, or special education program. The online graduate certificate prepares graduate-level students and individuals looking for a post-professional certificate to set themselves apart in their field.
The Graduate Academic Certificate Program is designed for
- Individuals who are looking for a post-professional certificate to set themselves apart in their current job or in future employment
- Graduate-level degree seeking students currently enrolled in engineering, health sciences or special education program
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“The lab allows students to experience the OSU Wexner Medical Center’s Assistive Technology Center remotely. 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.”
Carmen P. DiGiovine, PhD ATP/SMS RET RESNA Fellow and Program Director -
“We designed the program using the RESNA code of ethics and standards. Based our curriculum on the ATP exam outline, and then expanded it to cover innovations like artificial intelligence and virtual reality.”
Carmen P. DiGiovine, PhD ATP/SMS RET RESNA Fellow and Program Director -
“We practice what we teach, 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.”
Carmen P. DiGiovine, PhD ATP/SMS RET RESNA Fellow and Program Director
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Proud Partner of RESNA
Academic Calendar
For the convenience of our online students, multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for our Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Graduate Certificate program.
Academic Calendar
For the convenience of our online students, multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for our Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Graduate Certificate program.
Admission Criteria
Applicants for the Graduate Certificate Program must meet the following requirements. Domestic and international applicants are eligible for this certificate.
Applicants must meet one requirement:
- Eligible for admission to the Graduate School at Ohio State as evidenced by:
- a baccalaureate or professional degree (or equivalent foreign credential) from an accredited college or university, earned by the expected date of entry into the certificate program
- a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for the last degree earned
- for international applicants and those who have held the status of U.S. permanent resident for less than one year from the first day of the first term of enrollment and are not currently an Ohio State graduate student, submission of TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- Currently enrolled as a degree-seeking student in a graduate program at The Ohio State University
Submit application and requested materials by the term deadline.
Application Materials
- Copies of official transcripts from every college/university where you have earned credit
- CV or resume
- Statement of Purpose addressing the following prompts:
- Why do you want to get the Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Certificate (ARTC)?
- What have you done in the past to prepare yourself for the ARTC program?
- What experiences, skills, and attributes do you bring to the program?
- How do you plan on applying the knowledge and skills from the ARTC program in professional practice?
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
The Application Process
Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.
Career Outlook
A graduate certificate in Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology opens up a variety of career opportunities, particularly in fields related to healthcare, rehabilitation, education, and technology development. Professionals with this certificate can work in clinical settings, educational institutions, research, and product development, often focusing on improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities or those recovering from injuries. Here are some potential career paths and job prospects:
1. Clinical and Healthcare Roles
- Assistive Technology Specialist: Working with individuals with disabilities to assess their needs and recommend appropriate assistive devices, such as mobility aids, communication devices, or computer access tools.
- Rehabilitation Engineer: Designing and customizing assistive technologies and devices to help individuals with physical or cognitive impairments.
- Occupational Therapist with a Focus on Assistive Technology: Integrating assistive technology into therapy plans to help patients regain independence and improve their daily functioning.
- Speech-Language Pathologist with Assistive Technology Specialization: Using communication devices and software to assist individuals with speech or language disorders.
2. Education and Training
- Assistive Technology Coordinator: Managing and implementing assistive technology programs in schools, helping students with disabilities access educational resources.
- Special Education Teacher with Assistive Technology Expertise: Incorporating assistive technologies into lesson plans to support students with learning or physical disabilities.
- Trainer/Instructor for Assistive Technology: Providing training to educators, healthcare professionals, and caregivers on the effective use of assistive technologies.
3. Product Development and Innovation
- Assistive Technology Product Designer: Developing new assistive devices or improving existing ones to better meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.
- Research and Development Specialist: Conducting research to develop innovative assistive and rehabilitative technologies, focusing on improving usability, accessibility, and effectiveness.
- Usability Specialist: Ensuring that assistive devices and technologies are user-friendly and meet the needs of end-users through testing and feedback.
4. Consulting and Advocacy
- Assistive Technology Consultant: Advising organizations, schools, or healthcare facilities on the selection, implementation, and management of assistive technologies.
- Advocate for Accessibility: Working with non-profits, government agencies, or advocacy groups to promote the adoption of assistive technologies and ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
- Policy Advisor: Helping shape policies related to the accessibility and availability of assistive technologies at the local, state, or national levels.
5. Public Health and Community Services
- Community Health Worker specializing in Assistive Technology: Providing support and guidance to individuals with disabilities in accessing assistive devices and services within their communities.
- Program Coordinator for Assistive Technology Initiatives: Managing programs that provide assistive technology services to underserved populations, including low-income individuals and rural communities.
6. Sales and Support
- Assistive Technology Sales Representative: Working for companies that manufacture or distribute assistive devices, providing product information, demonstrations, and support to customers and healthcare providers.
- Technical Support Specialist for Assistive Technology: Providing customer support and troubleshooting for users of assistive technologies, ensuring they can effectively use the devices.
7. Research and Academia
- Researcher in Assistive Technology: Conducting studies on the effectiveness, usability, and impact of assistive technologies, often within academic institutions or research organizations.
- Academic Instructor: Teaching courses on assistive and rehabilitative technology at universities or colleges, contributing to the education of future professionals in this field.
Overall, a graduate certificate in Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology can lead to a rewarding career that combines healthcare, technology, and advocacy, with opportunities to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Provide individualized physical education instruction or services to children, youth, or adults with exceptional physical needs due to gross motor developmental delays or other impairments.
Work Activities
Adapt instructional techniques to the age and skill levels of students. Instruct students, using adapted physical education techniques, to improve physical fitness, gross motor skills, perceptual motor skills, or sports and game achievement. Provide individual or small groups of students with adapted physical education instruction that meets desired physical needs or goals.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $43,220
- Mid Level: $67,430
- Senior Level: $109,360
Job Outlook
Below Average
Related Careers
- Special Education Teachers, Elementary School
- Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten
- Special Education Teachers, Middle School
- Special Education Teachers, Preschool
- Special Education Teachers, Secondary School
Job Sectors
- Education and Training
- Psychology
- English Language
- Therapy and Counseling
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Under close supervision of a physical therapist or physical therapy assistant, perform only delegated, selected, or routine tasks in specific situations. These duties include preparing the patient and the treatment area.
Work Activities
Clean and organize work area and disinfect equipment after treatment. Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment. Instruct, motivate, safeguard, or assist patients practicing exercises or functional activities, under direction of medical staff.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $24,960
- Mid Level: $34,520
- Senior Level: $46,930
Job Outlook
Average
Related Careers
- Occupational Therapy Aides
- Occupational Therapy Assistants
- Physical Therapist Assistants
- Psychiatric Aides
- Psychiatric Technicians
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Computers and Electronics
- Therapy and Counseling
- Psychology
What They Do
Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.
Work Activities
Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities. Document patient information, such as notes on their progress. Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $46,020
- Mid Level: $65,510
- Senior Level: $87,630
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Occupational Therapy Aides
- Occupational Therapy Assistants
- Physical Therapist Aides
- Psychiatric Technicians
- Respiratory Therapists
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Therapy and Counseling
- English Language
- Education and Training
- Psychology
What They Do
Assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and improve or correct disabling conditions resulting from disease or injury.
Work Activities
Plan, prepare, or carry out individually designed programs of physical treatment to maintain, improve, or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain, or prevent physical dysfunction in patients. Perform and document an initial exam, evaluating data to identify problems and determine a diagnosis prior to intervention. Record prognosis, treatment, response, and progress in patient's chart or enter information into computer.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $74,420
- Mid Level: $101,020
- Senior Level: $132,500
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Emergency Medicine Physicians
- Occupational Therapists
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Therapy and Counseling
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Psychology
- Education and Training
What They Do
Provide therapy to patients with visual impairments to improve their functioning in daily life activities. May train patients in activities such as computer use, communication skills, or home management skills.
Work Activities
Teach cane skills, including cane use with a guide, diagonal techniques, and two-point touches. Recommend appropriate mobility devices or systems, such as human guides, dog guides, long canes, electronic travel aids (ETAs), and other adaptive mobility devices (AMDs). Train clients with visual impairments to use mobility devices or systems, such as human guides, dog guides, electronic travel aids (ETAs), and other adaptive mobility devices (AMDs).
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $67,090
- Mid Level: $98,340
- Senior Level: $129,830
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Occupational Therapists
- Occupational Therapy Aides
- Occupational Therapy Assistants
- Recreational Therapists
- Rehabilitation Counselors
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Education and Training
- Psychology
- Transportation
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Diagnose and treat disorders requiring physiotherapy to provide physical, mental, and occupational rehabilitation.
Work Activities
Document examination results, treatment plans, and patients' outcomes. Examine patients to assess mobility, strength, communication, or cognition. Assess characteristics of patients' pain, such as intensity, location, or duration, using standardized clinical measures.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $66,860
- Mid Level:
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Average
Related Careers
- Cardiologists
- Emergency Medicine Physicians
- General Internal Medicine Physicians
- Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric
- Pediatric Surgeons
Job Sectors
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Psychology
- Biology
- Therapy and Counseling
- Education and Training
What They Do
Counsel individuals to maximize the independence and employability of persons coping with personal, social, and vocational difficulties that result from birth defects, illness, disease, accidents, aging, or the stress of daily life. Coordinate activities for residents of care and treatment facilities. Assess client needs and design and implement rehabilitation programs that may include personal and vocational counseling, training, and job placement.
Work Activities
Prepare and maintain records and case files, including documentation, such as clients' personal and eligibility information, services provided, narratives of client contacts, or relevant correspondence. Confer with clients to discuss their options and goals so that rehabilitation programs and plans for accessing needed services can be developed. Develop rehabilitation plans that fit clients' aptitudes, education levels, physical abilities, and career goals.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $34,480
- Mid Level: $46,110
- Senior Level: $77,200
Job Outlook
Below Average
Related Careers
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers
- Healthcare Social Workers
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
- Mental Health Counselors
- Occupational Therapy Aides
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Therapy and Counseling
- Education and Training
- Psychology
- English Language
National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
The Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Graduate Certificate Program consists of 12 credit hours and the curriculum leverages the knowledge, skills and experiences of the graduate student, and will allow the student to critically analyze assistive technology and rehabilitation technology, synthesize technology to meet the functional goals of individuals with disability and justify the need for assistive and rehabilitative technology. This program can be completed in two semesters with continuous enrollment or at a desired pace.
Students learn how to develop and implement assistive technology (AT) devices and services. The course includes information on disability, computer access/technology, alternative and augmentative communication, electronic cognitive devices, driver’s rehabilitation, low vision technologies, seating and wheeled mobility, electronic activities of daily living, and home automation.
Students learn how to develop and implement seating and mobility devices and services. The course includes information on mobility devices including canes, crutches, walkers, manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, scooters and power add-on devices. The course also includes information on seating systems including seat cushions, back supports, and postural supports.
Students learn how to develop and implement assistive technology devices and services which focus on computer, communication and control technologies. The course includes information on communication technologies, control interfaces, electronic aids to daily living, internet of things, zero-effort technologies, educational technologies, and emerging technologies.
Students learn how to develop and implement assistive technology devices and services in adapted sports and recreation. The course includes technology for Paralympic sports, summer sports, winter sports, video games, and recreation. The course will review principles of anthropometrics, biomechanics and ergonomics as it applies to adapted sports and recreation.
Students will learn the various modes of AAC, procurement, funding, and intervention for those with complex communication needs secondary to a variety of diagnoses.
Throughout the course, students can explore the virtual lab, a recreation of the Assistive Technology Center at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, in order to find “hot spots.” Released week by week, these 17 hot spots contain helpful material such as video interviews with real assistive technology clients and up-close introductions to a variety of smart assistive home technology including video doorbells and eye-controlled tablets.
The virtual lab is a valuable resource for online students, who may not have access to such a facility.
Program Faculty
The School of Health and Rehabilitation faculty that teaches courses for the Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Graduate Certificate are dedicated experts in their field and are passionate about educating the future leaders in the field.
Carmen DiGiovine, PhD, ATP/SMS, RET
Professor – Clinical
Dr. Carmen DiGiovine is clinical professor in the Occupational Therapy Division in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at The Ohio State University. As a rehabilitation engineer and assistive technology professional (ATP), Dr. DiGiovine’s professional goal is to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities through the application of science and technology. He accomplishes through his research, teaching, and service activities. Dr. DiGiovine’s research focuses on the implementation of assistive technology devices and services, with a focus on seating and wheeled mobility (SWM) and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). As the program director for the Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology Certificate (ARTC) program, his teaching activities focus on online assistive technology courses. Finally, his professional service activities focus on the amplification of evidence-based practice through his involvement as a volunteer leader in the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).
Amy Sonntag
Assistant Professor – Clinical
About the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (HRS) is one of the largest providers of health professionals in the nation, with more than 14,000 graduates making a global impact on health care. Clinical and administrative health care professionals – distinct from medicine, dentistry and nursing – make up over 60% of today’s health care workforce. They provide a wide range of technical, diagnostic and therapeutic services critical to patient care. And they can work directly with patients or behind the scenes as key members of the health care team.
We offer over 16 academic programs at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral level. Most of our programs are ranked in the top 10 nationally for their academic achievements and student outcomes. The school resides under one of the top-ranked medical schools in the country, The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
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Tuition Fee Overview
Investing in your future with a higher education degree is one of the best investments you can make for your future success. At Ohio State, we know understanding your program’s cost is an important part of your decision-making process. Below are the tuition fees you can expecct with your program. Actual costs may vary. Estimates are based on the expenses typical of an Ohio State Online student, who would take 6 credit hours each semester as a part-time undergraduate student (or 8 credit hours for graduate programs), or 12 credit hours (for undergraduate programs) each semester as a full-time student. Please note that the summer semester instructional and general fees are 75% of the cost of autumn and spring fees, and this will decrease your total cost for the program.
| Tuition and Fees | Fee per grad credit hour (unless otherwise noted) | Part-Time – (per semester, based on approx. 6 credit hours/semester) |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $829.75 | $4,978.50 |
| General Fee | $32.63 | $195.78 |
| Learning Technology Fee | $11.00 | $66.00 |
| Textbooks and Course Materials (estimation) | $60.00 (per semester) | $60.00 (per semester) |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 (per semester) |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 (per semester) |
| International Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 (per semester) |
Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill.
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