The interdisciplinary Minor in Disability Studies is designed to help students understand disability from historical, cultural, sociological, anthropological, political, legal, philosophical, and other perspectives.
The program focuses on disability as a social and cultural phenomenon, as well as an identity, a social construct, and a metaphor. It does not focus on instructional or clinical approaches to disability, but it can complement the studies of students in these programs.
Topics covered include disability law and policy; the sociology, anthropology, geography, and history of disability; the intersection between disability and race, gender, sexuality, and class; the representation of disability in literature, the media, and popular culture; advocacy and self-advocacy; and assistive technology and accommodations for people with disabilities.
“I am minoring in Disability Studies because I am interested in how disability is perceived and constructed within our society. With this minor, I can actively work to shift the misconceptions and misinformation surrounding disability in our schools.”
Patricia Maciolek ’19, Inclusive Elementary and Special Education Major
The Disability Studies minor requires 18 credits, with at least 4 total courses with a DSP prefix, and at least 4 total courses at the 300 level or above. Students will choose their courses to fit these requirements with the disability studies minor program advisor. More information on academic requirements available in the Syracuse University Course Catalog.
If you are interesting in declaring a minor, talk to your advisor in your home school or college to see if you have enough room for the courses, a minimum of a 2.8 GPA, and complete the Minor Declaration Form. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Academic and Student Services.
Academic and Student Services
soeacademicservices@syr.edu | 315.443.9319
