Minor in Disability and Human Development

Enrich your education, expand your perspective, and enhance your awareness of disability and diversity

UIC’s minor in disability and human development 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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UIC top 10
minor program
Sara Burnett outside hiking
Sara Burnett '15 believes DHD can help change the world
Meet Sara
104
alumni with DHD minor

Why minor in disability and human development?

With a minor in DHD, 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.

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.
AnnaMaria Baraglia

Learn from the best

  • Robin Jones headshot

    Robin Jones

    A leading expert on the Americans with Disabilities Act, access and disability law

  • Rooshey Hasnain headshot

    Rooshey Hasnain

    Dedicated to understanding the lives, challenges, and strengths of people with disabilities/mental health issues, especially refugees and immigrants

  • Tamar Heller headshot

    Tamar Heller

    A leader in bridging aging and disability research, practices, and policies

Applying

Our undergraduate minor in disability and human development 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 accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. Students are notified of either decision—accepted or denied—via email within three weeks of submitting the application.

Headshot of Maris and Maitha together smiling

Questions?

Still wondering what a minor in disability and human development can do for you? Don’t worry! We’re here to help.

You can contact the DHD Office of Student Affairs.