Disability Studies

Departmental Honors in Disability Studies

Qualified Disability Studies majors are encouraged to consider Honors in Disability Studies. This program provides an opportunity for the exceptional student to work closely with a faculty adviser on an independent research topic.

Admission to the DST Honors Program is based on academic achievement. Those who seek the pleasure of immersing themselves in a significant project of their own choosing, are considering graduate school, enjoy a challenge, and who meet the qualifications are urged to speak further with a DST faculty member about this opportunity. This research experience often leads to publication and is an excellent preparation for graduate studies. 

What is an Honors Thesis?

The Honors Thesis is a first attempt at writing professional scholarship. Interested students should build from a research question grounded in interdisciplinary Disability Studies scholarship and theory.

Students begin by identifying a subject, developing a research proposal, and identifying a thesis director. Students complete the Honors Thesis in a subsequent 3 credit independent study led by their DST thesis director. 

Creative or applied projects may be accepted with the approval of the thesis director.  The Honors Thesis must include a rigorous analysis of research findings that results in a clear and original argument.  To earn Honors in Disability Studies students must successfully defend their Honors Thesis before a committee of appropriate faculty. 

Specifics

-        A Proposal must be approved by the thesis director. The Proposal must include and identify the research question, methodology, and intended bibliography.

-        Typically, a thesis has the following parts: an abstract, table of contents, introduction, bibliography and appendices; and the following as appropriate: review of literature, theory discussion, research methodologies discussion, appendices.

-        The resulting thesis should be at least 25 pages.