IDHD - Master of Science

Text Version Skip to the Content | || ||Search this site ||En Español

| Home || About us || Academic Programs || Programs & Centers || Resources || Events: IL USA World || Staff and Faculty |

Master of Science in Disability and Human Development

A central value in the identity of the Master of Science in Disability and Human Development (DHD) program is its dedication to the interdisciplinary study of disability with the goal of removing barriers to the advancement of people with disabilities in society. Our students reflect this value. A sampling of recent and current thesis projects illustrate the wonderful diversity of interests and interdisciplinary character of the program:

A history of the emergence of the disability rights movement in India;
The ergonomics of accessibility standards;
An exploration of scientific constructions of disability through the lens of Neurasthenia and Chronic Fatigue;
Accessibility in the Asian community;
Analysis of disability policy in the nation of Columbia;
Augmentative and alternative communication in the school system;
The epistemologies of eugenics; and
Satisfaction of persons with disabilities with Medicaid managed care.

As featured in the New York Times and the Chronicle of Higher Education, the Department of Disability and Human Development (DHD) offers the nation’s first graduate degree program focused on the interdisciplinary study of disability.

As this sampling of student thesis topics suggests, we are unique in our interdisciplinary approach. Graduates of the program are prepared for leadership positions in human service organizations as well as for continuing work in research on disability. The curriculum examines disability and human development across the life span with an emphasis on promoting self-determination, community integration, and inclusion. Study and research are available in two areas of specialization: disability studies and social policy and rehabilitation technology. Each area of specialization offers substantial flexibility in developing areas of sub-specialization.

Although we’re a relatively young program with our first graduating class in 2001, DHD students have made their mark in the College of Applied Health Sciences. At the annual commencement, the College identifies for special recognition one graduating student at the Master’s level who has demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and professional promise, and has given service to the campus or community. Each year since 2001, a DHD graduate has won the award.

Director of Graduate Studies: Glenn T. Fujiura, PhD

Contact:
Maitha Abogado, Academic Coordinator
Phone: 312.413.1647
TTY: 312.413.0453
Email: DHD@uic.edu
Internet: http://www.ahs.uic.edu/dhd/academics/ms.php

Institute on Disability and Human Development
Department of Disability and Human Development
College of Applied Health Sciences
1640 W. Roosevelt Road, MC 626
Chicago IL 60608