What is disability studies in the USA like?

I'm considering disability studies in college and want to learn more about what's offered in the USA. What kind of programs and career paths are available in this field?

Disability Studies is an emerging field that focuses on the social, cultural, and political implications of disability. It's a multidisciplinary subject area that spans several fields, including sociology, psychology, education, history, law, and literature.

In terms of programs, many colleges and universities in the USA offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in Disability Studies. There might be variations in the course content depending on the university. Generally, courses in a Disability Studies program might cover areas such as the history of disability, disability law and policy, disability and culture, and disability in an educational context.

As for career paths, graduates in Disability Studies can find careers in a wide variety of fields. Some graduates work in advocacy or policy roles, striving to influence legislation, and societal attitudes towards disability. Others work in direct service roles, like case management or counseling. Many people in this field work in education as well, whether it's teaching, developing curriculum, or conducting research. There's also a role to play in corporate environments, working on inclusive policies and practices or consulting on accessibility.

There's a wide variety in careers simply because, in every sector, there is a need to understand and accommodate people with disabilities. It's also a field that's continually developing, with new opportunities arising consistently.

For example, if you consider healthcare, people with disabilities often face nuanced health challenges or obstacles to healthcare access that might not be understood by healthcare professionals without such specialized knowledge, opening up careers in healthcare advocacy or consulting.

In essence, Disability Studies can offer you diverse career trajectories making it a compelling field of study if you are passionate about promoting equality and inclusivity for all individuals.