New Specialization In Disability Studies—Preparing Students for Leadership Roles at the Intersections of their Disciplines and Disability

The Ohio State University has announce that a Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Disability Studies received final approval and will open its doors during the Summer 2006. The graduate specialization joins two undergraduate programs, an interdisciplinary minor in disability studies (disabilitystudies.osu.edu) and a uniquely interdisciplinary American Sign Language program.

Disability Studies seeks to study the nature, meaning, and consequences of disability in global culture from multiple perspectives in order to provide an enriched and coherent view of disability as part of universal human experience. By understanding and analyzing disability as a phenomenon that simultaneously manifests itself at the bodily, personal, and societal levels Disability Studies provides a context for understanding the meaning and experience of difference in society.

The Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Disability Studies will provide core experiences in and out of the classroom to bring coherence to the broad and flexible curriculum. A series will bring visiting scholars and community leaders to campus for student workshops and public lectures that will explore the perceptions that surround both the concept of "disability" and the actual experience of living with a disability in the contemporary world. Participation in student research forums provides opportunities to further integrate their interests, skills and experience. Enhancing students' major fields of studies with interdisciplinary perspectives and tools the Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Disability Studies prepares students to assume leadership roles at the intersections of their disciplines and disability.

For more information contact L. Scott Lissner, ADA Coordinator - Office Of The Provost

(614) 292-6207[v]; (614) 688-8605[tty]; (614) 688-3665[fax]
ada.osu.edu