The interdisciplinary Major in Disability Studies creates spaces for rethinking the dominance of traditional, individualized and medicalized models of disability by identifying the systemic barriers to full participation in society experienced by disabled people. It examines the historical and cultural roots of today’s categories of thought, and offers innovative theories, cases and best practices for moving towards a more inclusive society. The program combines rigorous academic foundations with an inquiry-based learning approach that values the contributions of people with disabilities themselves, and acknowledges the breadth and complexity of the large and diverse field being studied (over 15% of the population has some form of disability, including intellectual, developmental, learning, physical, sensory, and mental health).

The curriculum aims to: (1) foster strong analytical, research, writing and verbal expression skills grounded in social science and humanities approaches; (2) provide students with a thorough grounding in specific DS topics and issues; and (3) enhance students’ ability to be effective, ethical, and creative actors in educational, civic and private organizations, who can change the structural conditions that disable people. The degree meets a growing local, national and international need for professionals capable of addressing disability-related social challenges, such as aging population, war- and sports-related physical impairment, and increasing rates of diagnosis for learning disability and mental health.