UToledo's disability studies program is helping students and the community understand the full spectrum of human diversity. As the first major of its kind in the U.S., the bachelor of arts degree program in disability studies is truly interdisciplinary and centered in the liberal arts and social sciences, while drawing on insights from across the campus. We also offer a minor and graduate certificate in disability studies.
Disability Studies Undergraduate Programs
The disability studies bachelor's degree and minor emphasize critical thinking in
an accessible framework of creative problem-solving.
Disability Studies Graduate Certificate
Our 12-credit graduate certificate is ideal for working professionals and graduate
students seeking advancement in policy, education, advocacy and compliance.
About Disability Studies at UToledo
Keep current on our news and events, connect with faculty and read additional info
about our programs.
What Disability Studies Graduates say
"Working as a provider agency that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, being able to evaluate how we support people with disability through a Disability Studies perspective has enabled me to provide supports in a more dignified and rights-focused way. This allows me to challenge systems of oppression, advocate in a more productive way, and help empower people to advocate for themselves. Without the knowledge I have learned as a DST major I feel that I would be complacent and willing to settle for less for the people I support and for my agency."
– Sarah K. Millimen, B.A. in Disability Studies - 2013
"Minoring in disability studies was one of the best decisions I've ever made! It paired perfectly with my speech pathology major, and has definitely made me better at what I do. Not to mention, the department has some of the best faculty UToledo has to offer! They really go above and beyond for their students.”
– Kaycee Gravenhorst Knapp, Minor in Disability Studies - 2019
"My personal and pro
fessional interest in disability studies lead me to this incredible program through the University of Toledo. I work as a college counselor at a high school and am always looking for ways to support my students with disability as they
explore their post-secondary options. The exceptional faculty and flexible schedule allow for a much 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."
-Ryan Chernick, Disability Studies Graduate Certificate, Masters of Interdisciplinary Studies - 2024
"My experience in the disability studies program has been life-changing. I had never
heard of the field of study until I took intro as a sophomore majoring in English.
I found myself drawn to this field and wanted to continue studying it much more in
depth. I have learned so much through my DST courses which have helped me figure out
a better career path for me doing advocacy work that really matters to me."
- Bailey Scheller, B.A. in Disability Studies - 2024
"I would say that my favorite memory of the DST program was the first class I took. I had my ah-ha moment of this is it, this is what I want to do with my life, I never want to stop learning. I started in a different program when I started my college journey, I changed majors two years in and transitioned to the DST program. I was told if I wanted to work in the Disability Field I had three options. This is not the case, I was able throughout my academic career to dive deep into the history, communication, art, technology, and more that have gotten me here today. Through this major, I was able to learn where my passion was. I never had any moment where I did not feel welcomed and supported, I have had the opportunity to work with every professor in the DST department, and through each class I feel deeply involved and in love with this program. This program has challenged me in many ways and helped me identify who I am and all the places I can go. Without this program, I would not have been able to say I loved my college experience and felt supported to continue learning. I thank every professor for such a safe space to question and continue to learn."
-Taylor Czaja, B.A. in Disability Studies - 2024
What Our Current Students Say
Strong Community Partnerships
The UToledo Disability Studies department 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.
GIVING
Students in the internationally-recognized Disability Studies program at The University of Toledo have great potential, but they need your help. When you give to the Disability Studies Scholarship and Research Fund, you transform lives by helping students obtain their education.
Your generous contributions will enable us to give financial assistance to more talented and hardworking students.