Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion
Position Details (Master's)
The study of disability has never been more important. Globally, there are around 1 billion disabled people and with an ageing population in many countries this figure is set to rise.
Disability is an important equality and human rights issue, with disabled people more likely to experience poverty and receive fewer education and employment opportunities than non-disabled people.
The online Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion course at University of Leeds will support you to recognise, understand and meet the challenges facing disabled people around the world. By studying this innovative online degree, you’ll be equipped to work to ensure that disabled people’s rights are respected, helping to build more inclusive and sustainable societies.
As an online learner you’ll join a global classroom with like-minded learners from around the world, in an accessible and inclusive online environment. Study the course that suits you - with our flexible course structure, you could work towards the Masters qualification, a postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma.
Whether you are already active in the field of disability rights, or looking to take your first steps, this course gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to be a change-maker in the field of social justice and disability activism.
Key facts
- The School of Sociology and Social Policy and our Centre for Disability Studies have long established links with organisations in the UK and overseas. Our experts provide research and consultancy, working with local, national and international organisations to help achieve equality and social justice for disabled people, globally. Our influential network of academics and professionals includes organisations such as the European Network on Independent Living, UNESCO, the International Disability Alliance and Harvard Law School’s Project on Disability.
- Thanks to our global connections, you’ll be able to hear first-hand from inspiring contributors about the real-world challenges and opportunities for your future career. Your applied project is also an opportunity to explore an area you are passionate about, with the opportunity to work in partnership with an appropriate organisation, and with expert academic supervision.
- As a graduate, you'll be well placed to develop your career in governments and organisations around the globe in a wide range of professional fields. This may include health and social support services, activism, education, statutory and voluntary agencies, legal services, national and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs and INGOs), human resources, business environments and charities. You would also be well prepared for further research at PhD level and careers in disability research or academia.
Courses include:
- Building Enabling Futures
- A Human Rights Approach to Disability
- Disability and Inequality
- Understanding Disability
- Disability and Inclusion
University of Leeds
Online (Part Time)
2 years
Feb 2026