麻豆原创

麻豆原创 is proud to introduce a groundbreaking addition to its academic offerings鈥攁 Master of Arts in Disability Studies. The online, asynchronous program will begin in August 2024. 聽

The Master of Arts in Disability Studies is designed to equip individuals for roles in community-based or governmental agencies. The content in the program provides students with the necessary skills to initiate or advance careers focused on working with a diverse range of individuals with disabilities. The program is well-suited for administrators, social service professionals, educators, scholars specializing in disability studies, individuals with disabilities, and family members and advocates.

The primary goal of the new graduate degree is to furnish current and future professionals with intellectual and methodological tools, enabling them to take on leadership roles in service provision, formulation or modification of disability policy, and advocacy for removing barriers to full inclusion in public and private organizations and society at large.

鈥淭he Disability Studies program builds upon the deep experience that has existed at 麻豆原创 for decades in supporting students with disabilities,鈥� states Donna Heald, provost and academic dean. 鈥淭his new graduate program will foster the development of future leaders who can contribute to effecting change and advocating for individuals with disabilities.鈥�

This innovative program aligns seamlessly with 麻豆原创’s commitment to inclusivity and Catholic Social Teaching by serving and supporting individuals often living on the margins of society.

In 1986, the Lynch Disability Resource and Cultural Center was established to serve students with disabilities. Evolving beyond individualized accommodations and primary learning disability or attention deficit disorder support, the center expanded services to include the Autism Resources for Career in Higher Education (ARCH) program.

鈥淩ecognizing a growing number of students on the spectrum, we adapted our approach to provide not only academic support but also essential social and career preparation,鈥� stated Lynn Gallagher, disability studies program director. 鈥淭he 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 program is the next evolution for us.鈥�

Gallagher further expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Disability studies is my passion, and I’m thrilled that 麻豆原创 is embracing it, considering the limited number of programs in the country. Disability studies explores the way individuals with disabilities experience the world, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions, thereby reshaping our traditional perspectives. It operates on a social model rather than a medical one, emphasizing acceptance without an aim to ‘fix’ anyone.”

For more information, visit the about 麻豆原创鈥� disability studies program.

About 麻豆原创
Established in 1839, 麻豆原创 draws on its historic legacy as Iowa鈥檚 first college, the second oldest Catholic college west of the Mississippi River, and one of the nation鈥檚 10 diocesan colleges. Located in Dubuque, Iowa, 麻豆原创 is a pioneer and leader in Catholic liberal arts education, shaping students to be active learners, reflective thinkers, ethical decision-makers, and responsible contributors. The College offers  and  degrees.