Minor in Disability Inclusion
Be the change! Gain the tools to effect change in whatever profession awaits you.
UIC’s minor in disability inclusion (DI) extends beyond the study of disability and examines various aspects of society that uniquely impact the experience and development of people living with disabilities.
The topic of disability is limited in many areas of study, but understanding and awareness is critical as we all experience disability. It’s important to appreciate the cultural context, complex history, and sociopolitical environment that impact the lives of people with disabilities and their position in the world.
Our program is home to faculty, researchers and students with backgrounds in health, education, assistive technology, social sciences and humanities. We offer a unique opportunity to study the full complexity of disability with an interdisciplinary exploration including healthcare, culture, politics, economics, history, legislation, education and social attitudes.
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Pride points
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UIC top 10 minor program
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104 alumni with DHD minor
Why minor in disability inclusion?
With a minor in DI, you’ll gain an enhanced perspective and improved critical thinking skills—something useful both personally and professionally, regardless of your field of study.
Our program teaches you to view disability as much more than a medical condition. We investigate the experiences of people with disabilities in order to broaden your perspective at the start of your career. This will give you a foundation of analysis, observation, and empathy that will expand your thinking and prepare you for work in any field.
We welcome students from all areas of study to join our diverse, vibrant and dynamic learning environment.
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Not only did I learn valuable paradigms in DHD classes, I felt as if I found my place and belonged which made me feel empowered and hungry to succeed with my educational goals.
Learn from the best
Minor in Disability Inclusion Courses
Required courses
| DHD 101 | Disability in US Society |
| AND | |
| DHD 411 | Disability Policy, Technology and Practice |
| OR | |
| DHD 412 | Disability Representation, Culture and Practice |
Electives
| DHD 102 | Disability in American Film |
| DHD 201 | Disability, Rights and Culture |
| DHD 202 | Disability, Health and Society |
| DHD 203 | Disability in World Cultures |
| DHD 204 | Disability in Humanities |
| DHD 205 | Disability, Race, Class and Gender |
| DHD 206 | Disability, Inclusive Cities and Environmental Accessibility |
| DHD 440 | Introduction to Assistive Technology: Principles and Practice |
| DHD 451 | Disability Communities, Careers and Professionalism |
DHD 101: Disability in U.S. Society
Discover how disability shapes – and is shaped by – our world through personal stories, social movements, art, and policy. This course offers fresh perspectives that challenge assumptions and spark critical thinking.
Instructor: Lieke van Heumen
On campus
DHD 411: Disability Policy, Technology and Practice
Explore how disability policies and innovative technologies shape real-world experiences across education, employment, healthcare, and more. This course connects theory to practice, giving you tools to make meaningful change in diverse communities.
Instructor: Lieke van Heumen
Asynchronous online
DHD 412: Disability Representation, Culture and Practice
Discover how to create accessible, inclusive content that resonates—this course explores disability culture and best practices for representation across platforms like social media, marketing, and nonprofit messaging. Perfect for anyone passionate about equity, creativity, and meaningful communication.
Instructor: Maggie Bridger
Asynchronous online
DHD 102: Disability in American Film
Explore how American films shape and reflect cultural ideas about disability, from stereotypes to empowerment. Discover what cinema reveals and conceals about the lived experiences of disabled people.
Instructor: Azadeh Safaeian
On campus
DHD 201: Disability, Rights and Culture
This course looks at how disability rights and disability culture have developed over time. You’ll explore how moral values, laws, culture, and economics have shaped the lives of people with disabilities in the past and today.
Instructor: Mariana Garcia Torres
Asynchronous online
DHD 202: Disability, Health and Society
Learn how people around the world understand disability and health using a framework from the World Health Organization. The course focuses on how family, culture, and public policies shape those experiences.
Instructor: Kristen Berg
Asynchronous online
DHD 203: Disability in World Cultures
Explore how disability is experienced differently around the world by looking at the role of culture, politics, and economics. You’ll see how systems and structures impact everyday life for people with disabilities.
Instructor: Rooshey Hasnain
Asynchronous online
DHD 204: Disability in Humanities
Take a look at how disability shows up in literature, art, performance, media, and history. This course uses the humanities to explore how disability is represented and understood across time and culture.
Instructor: Emily Horowitz
Asynchronous online
DHD 205: Disability, Race, Class and Gender
This course dives into how disability connects with race, class, gender, and other identities. You’ll explore big questions through open discussion and an intersectional approach.
Instructor: Emily Horowitz
Asynchronous online
DHD 206: Disability, Inclusive Cities and Environmental Accessibility
See how cities can include or exclude people with disabilities through design, planning, and policy. You’ll look at how space and place affect daily life, and what inclusive urban planning can look like.
Instructor: Yochai Eisenberg
On campus
DHD 451: Disability Communities, Careers and Professionalism
Explore career pathways, trends, and professional development opportunities within disability fields. You’ll gain insight and understanding of the diversity of disability communities from leading practitioners and organizations.
Instructor: Robert Gould
Online
Applying
Our undergraduate minor in disability inclusion is open to majors from all UIC units and colleges. Before you apply, make sure you:
- Have a minimum UIC GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Have consulted your home college about the acceptability and applicability of DHD course credit toward your degree
Apply
Submit your application online via our application form. Applications are accepted throughout the year.
What’s next?
Applications are reviewed once per semester. Submit your application by Week 14 of Fall 2025 to receive a decision via email by Week 16.
Registration for DHD courses that apply to the Minor in Disability Inclusion is open to all students on campus. Students may enroll in undergraduate DHD courses before their minor application is reviewed.
Questions?
Questions?
Still wondering what a minor in disability inclusion can do for you? Don’t worry! We’re here to help.
You can contact the DHD Office of Student Affairs.
Email dhdosa@uic.edu
Phone 312.996.1508
Address 1640 W. Roosevelt Rd.
242 DHSP, MC 626
Chicago, IL 60608-6904