What to Expect
A detailed look at the program
The disability studies program is designed primarily as a full-time course of study. Students who are full time will be expected to maintain a course load of three or more classes per semester. Each student will have an advisor chosen from the faculty of the program. The advisor will monitor the student’s progress through the program and may serve as the chair for the dissertation committee.
The program must be completed within seven years.
Minimum 96 semester hours required beyond the baccalaureate degree.
Course Work
Required Courses
DHD 501 | Disability Studies I | 4 hours |
DHD 502 | Disability Studies II | 4 hours |
DHD 510 | Concepts in Interdisciplinary Research on Disability | 3 hours |
DHD 541 | Advanced Concepts in Disability Research | 3 hours |
DHD 592 | Interdisciplinary Seminar in Disability Studies | 1 hour in fall; 1 hour in spring |
At least two research methods courses appropriate to the student’s research interests are chosen with an advisor and must total a minimum of 9 additional credit hours.
Elective Courses
Twenty-four semester hours of study in a content area, chosen in consultation with the student’s advisor. At least 12 hours must be from within the College of Applied Health Sciences.
Examinations
Preliminary Examination: Required. This exam is generally taken during year 2, spring term.
Dissertation
Required. A minimum of 24 semester hours required. The dissertation must be defended at a public session before the dissertation committee and other members of the academic community.
Resources
-
AHS Student Resources
Helpful resources across campus that offer support for you as a student
-
Association of University Centers on Disabilities Trainee Network
When you become a part of the Department of Disability and Human Development, you join AUCD—a national organization that supports and promotes a network of university-based interdisciplinary programs
-
Chancellor's Committee on the Status of Persons with Disabilities (CCSPD)
The mission of CCSPD is to promote empowerment and inclusion of the faculty, staff, and students with disabilities at UIC. CCSPD recognizes that people with disabilities are a diverse group, including individuals with visible and non-visible disabilities. This mission is motivated by the belief that people with disabilities are assets to the university, not liabilities.
-
DHD Graduate Student Handbook
A useful reference for questions regarding program practices or policies
-
DHD Graduate Student Handbook (Accessible Version)
A useful reference for questions regarding program practices or policies
-
DHD Independent Study Form
Registration form for DHD independent study courses
-
DHD Student Association (DHDSA)
DHDSA is an organization
devoted to supporting students within DHD, advocating for disability across campus, and navigating college
or graduate school and the job process. Each spring, DHDSA hosts the Chicago Disability Studies Conference at UIC. -
Disability Cultural Center
A center engaging in cultural, social and educational programming, and community outreach, to advance understanding of the disability experience, as a source of pride, knowledge and artistic expression.
-
Disability Resource Center
Facilitating access for students with disabilities