Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 5/2/2010

Question
Cynthia Bedell,

I am currently working on my master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling.  I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Health Education.  I plan on applying for a commission in the Air Force upon my graduation in December, but many recruiters are not familiar with what department Rehabilitation Counseling falls under, or if it even exists in the Air Force. My perception is that it is a career with the Medical Services Corps.

I would love to serve my country and work in my career field.  Do you know if Rehabilitation Counseling exists? And if so, which department does it fall under. Also, are there benefits to joining with a master's degree?

Your insight would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Dear Tim --

The career field you are interested in either falls under the medical department (AMEDD for the Army) or it falls under social work.  The military civilianized most of the social worker positions about two decades ago during the "peace dividend" downsizing.  

If you want a military position in that field, you must go to a specific medical recruiter, not your standard recruiter.  If you do not have an MD, you can still get an officer's commission, but it will be more difficult to qualify for the type of duty you want.

You are currently eligible for a scholarship to the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, where you could get your MD or Ph.D. in psychiatry with a rehabilitation focus.

Please write back, if you are interested in such a program.  More information is available at their web site.  http://www.usuhs.mil/

Good luck to you.