PG and Research Department of Rehabilitation Science
The PG and Research Department of Rehabilitation Science is a pioneering institute in teaching and training professionals in the field of Rehabilitation for persons with special needs. Among the various courses offered by Holy Cross College, the programs in Rehabilitation Science and Special Education, recognized by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) in the Multiple Disability Category, are the first of their kind in Asia. Established in 1983, the department was a collaboration between the Holy Cross Congregation of Chavanod, Bharathidasan University, and Christoffel Blinden Mission, West Germany, aiming to address the shortage of trained rehabilitation workers.
The department's services were initiated by the visionary leadership of Rev. Dr. Sr. Elizabeth Rose and stalwarts like Dr. Sr. Maria Kamalam and Dr. Prabhakar Immanuel, who, alongside a dedicated faculty, advanced the institute’s mission of empowering individuals with disabilities for an inclusive society. The department offers a wide range of academic programs, including diplomas, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees, as well as need-based courses in the field of Disability Rehabilitation.
Since its inception, the department has forged strong national and international networks, enriched by the contributions of experts like Dr. Jeanne Kenmore, Dr. Christine Carlson, and Dr. Pamela Amber from the USA, supported by Christoffel Blinden Mission. This Department is affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu and recognized by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). This course has been recognized by Govt. of Tamil Nadu (G.O. Ms. No. 901, dated 20.07.1989). The Department of Rehabilitation Science initiated the School of Rehabilitation and Behavioural Sciences in 2020, to enter into a new era of education.
The department boasts global partnerships with institutions in the USA, Germany, Australia, and beyond, and has a stellar alumnae network with 100% employment. Graduates have become special educators, low vision consultants, counselors, and more, serving across continents, including the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. Strategic partnerships with schools and universities further facilitate student and staff exchange programs.
With 40 years of excellence, the Department celebrated its Ruby Year during 2024. Commitment extends beyond academics, with initiatives like the Holy Cross Blossoms Opportunity School and Rainbow Therapeutic Centre providing direct support to children with developmental disabilities. Additionally, the department collaborates with prominent national institutions like NIEPMD and NIMHANS and runs extension programs like Youth for Jobs (Y4J), empowering youth with disabilities. Compulsory internships, fieldwork, and clinical practice prepare students for real-world challenges. The department also offers consultancy services, helping organizations establish disability services, and supports the UN's Disability-Inclusive Development 2030 Agenda by fostering a barrier-free, inclusive society.
Vision
Creating a just and equal society for Persons with Disabilities.
Mission
Nurturing an attractive learning horizon to empower the student community to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services to persons with disabilities, safeguarding their rights, entitlements, opportunities, and full participation.
Motto
Embracing Differences.