MA Disability Studies By Distance Learning – (M.A.)

Contents

MA in Disability Studies by Distance Learning is a two year part-time distance learning course. The course has five compulsory modules: three for study in the first year, two in the second.

Compulsory Modules

Year One
Theories and Definitions of Disability examines the various definitions of impairment and disability: medical, psychological and socio/political, alongside theoretical perspectives. You will also investigate the historical development of the 'disability' category and examine ancient myths and prejudices, social policy and disabled people since the seventeenth century; and charity and the welfare state.

Social Policy, Politics and Disabled People focuses on social policy and disabled people throughout the post-1945 period with particular emphasis on developments during the 1980s and 1990s. The module explores 'special educational needs', legislation and employment, disability benefits, health and social support services for disabled people, self help, organisation, politics and public amenities - housing, transport and public buildings.

Culture, Researching Disability and Changing Practice concentrates on contemporary culture and its implications for disabled people, researching disability and the implementation of good practice. The module analyses equal opportunities, national and local disability information providers, what constitutes access and accessible information and how to involve disabled people in policy and planning.

Year Two
Disability Research Strategy and Design gives a comprehensive insight into the complexities of research training. The course provides a step-by-step approach to research design that concentrates on key issues and questions researchers need to recognise, confront and resolve on the design of social research.

Disability Dissertation consists of two parts: one 5,000 word essay outlining the research topic, and a 15,000 word dissertation. The additional length of the dissertation allows you to utilise knowledge and skills gained from previous modules and to explore and research your chosen topic in more detail. The Dissertation may be a secondary analysis or an empirical study of a previously unstudied topic.

Module assessment is an essay of up to 6,000 words, or the equivalent, for each module.