Disability Studies
Disability Studies explores the meaning of human difference – how we value some bodies and devalue others, how we accept or resist certain notions of "normal" behavior, function, and appearance.
Disability Studies students have gone on to work in allied health, higher education, nonprofit management, elected office, and studied in graduate programs including Masters in Nursing, Economics, Disaster Planning and Management, as well as law school.
Caring Faculty
Disability Studies faculty are skilled scholars, excellent teachers, and committed to student wellbeing. Learn more about our faculty.
Career-Minded Experiences
The Disability Studies Program prioritizes experiences that encourage students to apply their knowledge in the real world and supports students with a network of organizations that have previously hosted Disability Studies interns.
Courses that Matter
Courses in the Disability Studies Program provide portable skills and the ability to think critically about disability access, inclusion and human rights.
Strong Community Partnerships
The UToledo Disability Studies program 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.
Meet Ryan Chernick
'24 Disability Studies Graduate Certificate, Masters of Interdisciplinary Studies
As a college counselor at a high school, I was looking for ways to support my students with disability as they explore their post-secondary options. The exceptional faculty and flexible schedule allowed for a deeper exploration into disability rights, policy, culture and representation. With what I’ve gained from the program, I will be better equipped to advocate for my students and to lobby for change where possible in the recruitment and enrollment of students with disabilities to college.
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