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Online Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Disability Studies

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9 Credits

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Rolling Admissions

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No GRE/GMAT REquired

About the Program

The online Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Disability Studies provides valuable knowledge and credentials for those considering disability as an element of human diversity. You’ll be able to use the knowledge and skills gained in this curriculum to work in areas such as the design of accessible environments, inclusive education, human resources, developing innovative products, promoting disability and human rights policy, museum curation and disability arts, adaptive fashion, and many other areas of concern related to disability.

For more information, visit the Center for Community Inclusion and Disability Studies website.

Contact Us

Have questions about earning your Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Disability Studies online with UMaine? Contact a UMaineOnline advisor.

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Julie Roach

UMaineOnline Advisor


207.573.0417
julie.a.roach@maine.edu

Student Experiences

The instructors have not only prompted me to change my way of thinking, but they have also taught me concrete skills and tools that I can use for the remainder of my career.  
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Amie P.

Curriculum

The following courses are required (9 credits):

  • DIS 500: Contemporary Disability Theory (3 credits) Summer
  • DIS 520: Disability: Advanced Interaction of Human Diversity and Global Environments (3 credits) Spring
  • DIS 530: Disability Policy (3 credits) Fall

Admissions

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university

We have rolling admissions, meaning you can apply and be accepted anytime. The admission evaluation process begins once we’ve received all of your application materials. Before you apply, please review the application instructions. When you’re ready to apply, please submit the following:

  • An online application
  • Current résumé or CV
  • Official academic transcripts from all institutions attended
  • A 300-500 word essay based on the following prompt
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Careers

Careers in disability studies focus on creative education for diverse learning styles, accessible healthcare, biomedical engineering, accessibility in arts and performance, policy development in human rights, navigation, and communication accessibility. For example, a product designer may collaborate with a roboticist to craft innovative mobility equipment for mobility-impaired people who want to participate in productive activities and sports. 

Examples of Who Can Use This Certificate 

  • Student Accessibility Services personnel wanting to enhance their understanding of access beyond what the ADA legislates.
  • Employers and human resources personnel committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion for all people.
  • Rehab professionals (e.g., occupational and physical therapists and speech-language pathologists) wanting to learn about policy and accessibility strategies.
  • Arts and performance professionals wanting to expand their performances and offerings to people who consume these media differently.
  • Elected officials wanting to examine disability policy in detail and to advance fair and equitable rights and legislation.
  • Medical professionals desiring to improve accessibility in their practices.

Faculty