The University of Leeds Celebrates the Launch of its Disability Studies Online Master’s Degree

In a significant move towards promoting disability rights and social justice, the University of Leeds is delighted to launch its pioneering online MSc in Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion.

This programme aims to make a profound impact on the global landscape of disability studies by championing accessibility and empowering learners to advocate for disability rights. Both the design of the course and the way it's delivered prioritise equitable access and inclusion, making the course valuable for a diverse audience.

Teaching began for its first module, Disability and Inequality, in September 2023. Applications are now open for the next entry point in March 2024.

Developed in partnership with the School of Sociology and Social Policy, the MSc in Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to advocate for and protect the rights of disabled people and communities, contributing to the creation of more inclusive and sustainable societies.

The design and development of the programme prioritised accessibility, anticipating access issues through proactively testing platforms and tools. The online degree provides equitable access to learning materials and offers learners open submission assessments and activities.

Taught by leading academics from the School of Sociology and Social Policy and members of the Centre for Disability Studies at the University of Leeds, the program also benefits from the insights of activists, policy makers, and practitioners in the disability space.

The University of Leeds invites individuals from all backgrounds, including disabled people and their allies, policy makers, service providers, professionals, and anyone interested in disability rights and inclusion, to embark on this transformative educational journey. Learners on the degree programme are invited to drive positive change and build a more inclusive future for all.

Scott, a current MSc student on Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion, said:

The course is interesting, inspiring, and challenging - in a good way.  There's a clear structure, a logical flow and a development of ideas which is building my foundation for future learning and research. The academics are knowledgeable, responsive, and supportive. They are happy to discuss ideas and facilitate links with other people and organisations. Working alongside students from a variety of countries and backgrounds and learning from their experiences has provided valuable insights too. I focused my undergraduate studies at Leeds on Disability issues, before working in advocacy and teaching for 25 years. Returning to education to undertake the MSc was a leap of faith, but was absolutely the right decision.

For more information on the MSc in Disability Studies, Rights, and Inclusion, click here.

See how this course was made...

Hear from those involved as they share their vision for change and the program’s unique approach to disability studies in this short video: