Type of Degree

CGS

School or College

College of Education and Social Services

Area of Study

Education and community

Program Format

Hybrid, Part-time

Credit hours to graduate

18 credits

Bring graduate level studies and disability expertise to your work. Learn how to make a real difference in the world with and for people with disabilities.

Program Overview

People and society benefit when we strive for equity in all spaces. Explore disability as a natural aspect of humanity while learning about its historical, cultural, societal, and personal significance.  

Learn principles and strategies to support equity while developing knowledge and skills to promote inclusion and advocate for justice and equity for people with disabilities.  

The Certificate of Graduate Study (mCGS) in Disability Studies is designed for working professionals, graduate students, and others who seek to advance their understanding of inclusive principles and theory.  

Offered through UVM's Center on Disability and Community Inclusion (CDCI) and Department of Education, graduate coursework provides opportunity for advanced readings, thoughtful discussion, and deeper exploration of understanding of disability as a construct across cultures. 

View Coursework

Pathways and Related Programs

Current UVM graduate students can complete the mCGS along with their main field of study. Credits earned can be applied toward a Certificate of Graduate Study or as part of a master’s or doctoral degree at UVM. 

The CGS in Disability Studies is also a strand for the M.Ed. in Advanced Specialties of Educational Practice

See Related Programs listed below. 

Video: Five Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to your frequently asked questions.

Contact

Program Coordinator Winnie Looby:

Curriculum

  1. Global Disability Studies (EDSP 3990)
  2. Culture of Disability (EDSP 5250)
  3. 12 additional UVM graduate credits of your choosing. This usually equals four additional courses.

Deadlines

Rolling application deadline.

Admissions

Prerequisites

In order to pursue this certificate program, individuals must have:

  • completed a bachelor's degree,
  • official transcripts from each college or university where credit has been earned,
  • three letters of recommendation, and
  • a personal statement.

While not a requirement, a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is recommended to ensure academic success at the advanced level.

Application Process

How you'll apply to the program depends on whether you are already enrolled at UVM (either part- or full-time) or another similar program. Please note that in all scenarios, you will apply through the UVM Graduate College.

1. Students who are not currently enrolled at UVM may enroll in a UVM graduate program solely to complete this certificate of graduate studies in the interdisciplinary study of disability. Applicants who are seeking admission to the Certificate of Graduate Study program only should follow regular online procedures for applying to the UVM Graduate College.

2. Students who are already enrolled in a UVM graduate program may develop an approved plan for taking the required 18 credits to complete this certificate in addition to their current graduate program.

3. Current UVM VT LEND Trainees may integrate their VT LEND coursework into an individualized plan of study that meets the competency requirements for this certificate.

4. Students who are currently enrolled in the VT LEND program, but not currently enrolled in a UVM graduate program, must complete the full online graduate application.

Questions?

All prospective students should make an appointment to talk with Dr. Winnie Looby, the academic coordinator of the program. She can help you determine which category you fall into, and which application process you will pursue.

Outcomes

"The program had a profound impact on my professional direction. Whether I’m working in program development, education, or community engagement, I now approach my work with a stronger commitment to universal design and policy advocacy. It also sparked an interest in disability justice work, and I’m exploring roles to directly support systemic change for disabled communities." -- Former Disability Studies Graduate Student Evelyne Blais-Savoie

More

Video: Learn more about the Disability Studies Graduate Certificate

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