Contact:

Steven J. Taylor, 805 S. Crouse Ave., 315-443-3851 or staylo01@syr.edu

The minor in Disability Studies focuses on disability as a social and cultural phenomenon, identity, social construct, and metaphor. Disability Studies applies social, cultural, historical, legal, philosophical, and humanities perspectives to understanding disability in society. Topics covered in Disability Studies 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. The Disability Studies minor does not focus on instructional or clinical approaches to disability, but can complement the studies of students in these programs.

The minor requires18 credits, with12 credits in Disability Studies courses and 6 credits of electives. At least 12 credits must be taken in 300 level or above courses. Courses must be approved by the student’s advisor in Disability Studies. Courses in the minor may be able to be used to fulfill requirements in students’ home schools and colleges, at their discretion.