Online Bachelor of Arts in Disability Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in disability studies equips you with the tools needed to help those with disabilities. In this disability studies major, you’ll learn how to create and advocate for policies in government, corporations and nonprofit organizations to increase inclusivity and create a greater sense of community.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/16/2023
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Disability Studies (BA)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
What is a Bachelor of Arts in disability studies?
The Bachelor of Arts in disability studies teaches you how to better understand and advocate for those living with disabilities. The disability studies major focuses on how society defines disability, rather than disability as a functional impairment. In this program, you’ll learn how to promote comprehensive workforce practices and greater opportunity for those living with disabilities.
What skills will I gain as a disability studies major?
Designed for students with a passion for advocacy, the disability studies major prepares you to make a positive impact on society by studying disability through historical, cultural, social, ethical and legal lenses. In doing so, you’ll learn to confront the marginalization of people with disabilities and acquire skills in research, advocacy and policymaking that are increasingly important in a range of professions. In the disability studies online program, you’ll become knowledgeable on topics such as diversity, equity and inclusion, and gain several transferable skills, including:
- Advocacy.
- Collaboration.
- Critical thinking.
- Effective communication.
- Ethical decision-making.
- Policy making.
- Research.
Is a degree in disability studies right for me?
The disability studies degree is ideal for students looking to acquire further skills in research, advocacy and policymaking. Disability studies students may be working as, or looking to work as:
- Attorneys.
- Compliance officers.
- Disability service directors.
- Educators.
- Human resource managers.
- Nonprofit leaders.
- Policymakers.
Additionally, if you’re currently working in the medical field and looking to help confront the marginalization of those living with a disability, this degree may be a good fit for you.
Will my disability studies degree say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Disability studies online courses
In the disability studies online degree, you’ll cover the legal and historical aspects of disability. You’ll also gain a comprehensive overview of advocacy for those living with disabilities both within the U.S. and internationally. Courses include:
HRC 200: Introduction to Social and Cultural Analysis (SB & C)
DST 101: Introduction to Disability Studies (C)
DST 322: Social and Cultural Implications of the Many Forms of Disability
DST 458: Disability and Communication Advocacy
What jobs can you get with a disability studies degree?
As the number of people with disabilities continues to increase, it becomes increasingly important to understand and meet people’s diverse needs. Upon graduation, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to work in a variety of industries, including business, advocacy, education, government and law. Specific career examples include, but are not limited to:
Community Health Worker
Employee Training Manager
Equal Employment Opportunity Officer (EEO Officer)
High School Special Education Teacher
Human Resources Manager
Lawyer
News Reporter
Politician
Social Services Director
Learn from leading educators at a world-renowned research university
As an ASU Online student, you’ll get the New College experience from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus from anywhere in the world. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.
Learn from leading educators at a world-renowned research university
As an ASU Online student, you’ll get the New College experience from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus from anywhere in the world. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.
Disability studies online admission requirements
first-year student
You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Study at one of the top-ranked universities in the nation
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
#1
in innovation for 8 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
Top 10
best online bachelor’s programs.
Top 10%
best global universities.
80%
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
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