Disability Studies

UToledo's disability studies program is helping students and the community understand the full spectrum of human diversity. As the first major of its kind in the U.S., the bachelor of arts degree program in disability studies is truly interdisciplinary and centered in the liberal arts and social sciences, while drawing on insights from across the campus. We also offer a minor and graduate certificate in disability studies.

Strong Community Partnerships

The UToledo Disability Studies department partners with organizations like the Ability Center, which "advocates, educates, partners, and provides services supporting people with disabilities to thrive within their community." More than half of its employees and board of trustees members are individuals living with disabilities.

A Disability Studies degree benefits anyone who plans to work in or provide goods or services to a community. It is relevant to careers in medicine, business, policy and advocacy, communications, education and more.

Top Reasons to Study Disability Studies at UToledo

Community partnerships.

works closely with The Ability Center of Greater Toledo, one of the country’s leading centers for independent living. Center staff regularly share their expertise with students inside and outside the classroom. Faculty meets regularly with center leaders to make sure UToledo’s curriculum keeps up with current trends.

Faculty and first-rate scholars.

UToledo has the only program with faculty devoted solely to disability studies. Faculty members specialize in communication, history, sociology, gender and women’s studies, and performance studies.

Research.

Work with expert faculty at a leading research university.

Study across disciplines.

The Disability Studies degree is centered in the liberal arts and social sciences, but students can choose courses across many other departments.

Add an MBA.

Want a career in policy, advocacy, health care, human resources or management? Take advantage of an innovative program that lets you earn a bachelor’s degree in disability studies and an MBA in five years instead of six. UToledo’s College of Business and Innovation is one of the country’s best business schools.

Internships.

All Disability Studies majors have at least one internship. Students find work in the Toledo area and across the country with:

• The Ability Center of Greater Toledo and other centers for independent living
• Disabled student services offices
• ADA compliance offices
• Recreational programs for people with disabilities
• The Washington Center
• Advocacy and direct service organizations
• A host of other organizations