Minor in Disability Studies

What will I learn in a disability studies minor?

No matter what major you are in, the interdisciplinary minor in Disability Studies can complement your degree by providing hands-on and classroom experience in understanding issues that face individuals with disabilities and their families across the lifespan.

Core courses are drawn from education and community health sciences, while a range of approved electives let you customize your program with coursework in psychology, social work and human development and family studies. You'll study topics that include special education in the classroom, assistive technologies and services to people with disabilities, and the laws governing disability and accommodations.

The minor in Disability Studies is offered by the Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED) through the College of Education & Human Development. Other participating colleges and schools include the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Science, the School of Public Health and the School of Social Work.

The mission of the NCED is work with local agencies and organizations to assist Nevadans with disabilities of all ages to be independent and productive citizens who are included in their communities.

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Careers with a minor in disability studies

A minor in disability studies can prepare you for a range of careers in sectors from education to public policy to social services.

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Special education teacher: This position involves working with students with various learning, mental, physical or emotional disabilities in the school setting. Job growth is expected to be about as fast as average over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but demand is projected to rise as awareness and diagnostic testing means more students with disabilities are identified earlier and enrolled into services. The median annual pay was $61,820 in 2021, according to the BLS.
Social worker: Social workers are employed in a wide range of settings, from schools to health care facilities to private practices, but they focus on helping individuals and families address challenges and access resources to improve overall well-being. A bachelor's degree in social work is sufficient for entry-level positions, although clinical social workers require a master's degree and state licensure. The median annual pay was $50,390 in 2021, according to the BLS, and job growth is expected to be faster than average over the decade from 2020 to 2030.

Rehabilitation counselor: These professionals help individuals with disabilities live independently and provide assistance managing employment, health care and treatment, and access to local resources. Although this career generally requires a master's degree, a minor in disability studies can help prepare you for graduate study. Job growth is expected to be as fast as average, the BLS projects, over the 10 years from 2020 to 2030, due to an aging population and increased need among populations such as veterans or individuals on the autism spectrum.

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