Disability Studies Programs

Three image collage from left: a smiling woman; a young boy going down a street using a walker; a woman with a man in a wheelchair in the outdoors

Disability Studies is an emerging academic field that explores disability from multiple perspectives, including the social sciences, humanities, science, and the law. The CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) offers groundbreaking, fully accredited programs within Disability Studies.

BA in Disability Studies

Fully Online (120 credits)

  • The first undergraduate degree program of its kind in the country
  • Earn the necessary skills to improve the lives of people with disabilities
  • Elect one of the four concentrations for in-depth study: Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Mental/Behavioral Health; Interdisciplinary Disability Studies

Events for BA in Disability Studies


Test Flight: Online Learning Simulation

MA in Disability Studies

Fully Online (30 credits)

  • The first stand-alone program of its kind in the country
  • Use a "person-centered" approach to the study of disability to uncover a new understanding of society
  • Gain intellectual and methodological tools to assume greater responsibility and leadership roles in the future as service providers, advocates, researchers, or policy makers

Events for MA in Disability Studies


Online Information Session: Graduate Programs

MS in Disability Services in Higher Education

Fully Online (30 credits)

  • The first degree of its kind in the country
  • Equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to support students with disabilities in higher education settings
  • Prepares graduates to assist college administration in developing policies and guidelines to support college students with disabilities

Events for MS in Disability Services in Higher Education


Online Information Session: Graduate Programs

Advanced Certificate in Disability Studies

Fully Online (12 credits)

  • Examine disability through psychology, history, literature, law, medicine, politics, and urban planning
  • Acquire a deeper understanding of disability studies, including its philosophy, importance in disability research, influence on public policy and impact on service delivery
  • Further or begin a career working with and for people with a wide range of disabilities in community-based and governmental agencies as they evolve in the 21st Century

Events for Advanced Certificate in Disability Studies


Online Information Session: Graduate Programs

Advanced Certificate in Disability Services in Higher Education

Fully Online (12 credits)

  • Great for people working in the field who have a master's in another discipline
  • A good option for entry-level workers who may not want a master's degree
  • Students can choose from an array of course options one of which is a practicum to gain hands-on experience

Events for Advanced Certificate in Disability Services in Higher Education


Online Information Session: Graduate Programs