Make a difference in the field of disability rights and social justice with this ground-breaking new online Masters degree in Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion.

The study of disability has never been more important. Globally, there are around 1 billion disabled people and with an ageing population in many countries this figure is set to rise.

Disability is an important equality and human rights issue, with disabled people more likely to experience poverty and receive fewer education and employment opportunities than non-disabled people.

The online MSc Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion will support you to recognise, understand and meet the challenges facing disabled people around the world. By studying this innovative online degree, you’ll be equipped to work to ensure that disabled people’s rights are respected, helping to build more inclusive and sustainable societies.

As an online learner you’ll join a global classroom with like-minded learners from around the world, in an accessible and inclusive online environment. Study the course that suits you - with our flexible course structure, you could work towards the Masters qualification, a postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma.

Whether you are already active in the field of disability rights, or looking to take your first steps, this course gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to be a change-maker in the field of social justice and disability activism.

You’ll explore:

• global perspectives on disability issues
• the social creation of disability and social models of disability
• cultural and human rights frameworks
• how and why disabled people experience inequalities
• building inclusive societies and futures
• the role and impact of disability activism and advocacy with an intersectional approach
• influencing disability policy, services and practice in a range of sectors, including law, architecture and design, medicine and healthcare, and the creative industries
• relationships with other areas of study including gender studies, transport studies and geography
• global issues such as climate change, natural disasters and conflict from a disability rights perspective

Who is this course for?

• disabled people and their allies
• policy makers
• service providers and professionals in the field of disability
• professionals working in NGOs and community organisations
• those new to disability, or who wish to think about disability differently, looking for a safe, affirming learning environment
• those interested in disability rights and inclusion who wish to explore this field of study

Career opportunities

The School of Sociology and Social Policy and our Centre for Disability Studies have long established links with organisations in the UK and overseas. Our experts provide research and consultancy, working with local, national and international organisations to help achieve equality and social justice for disabled people, globally. Our influential network of academics and professionals includes organisations such as the European Network on Independent Living, UNESCO, the International Disability Alliance and Harvard Law School’s Project on Disability.

Thanks to our global connections, you’ll be able to hear first-hand from inspiring contributors about the real-world challenges and opportunities for your future career. Your applied project is also an opportunity to explore an area you are passionate about, with the opportunity to work in partnership with an appropriate organisation, and with expert academic supervision.