Shape a More Inclusive World With Our Disability Studies Concentration
Our bachelor’s in human services Disabilities Studies concentration can empower you to make a profound difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Gain a deeper understanding of the nature of disabilities, positive intervention strategies, disability law and policy, advocacy, and how to support individuals and families of those who have a disability.
Walden’s Disability Studies online program concentration helps students develop the skills to work with children and adults with disabilities in a variety of settings. Our program academically prepares you to seek National Association of Qualified Intellectual Disability Professionals (QIDP) certification.
Learn Actionable Skills
Engage in immersive learning technologies—including virtual simulations—to practice and apply what you learn in class.
Drive Social Change
Build skill sets essential to effecting meaningful change for diverse people with disabilities.
Stand Out to Employers
Strengthen your résumé with practical direct-service skills as well as the leadership mastery to potentially work in administrative roles
Gain Field Experience
Optional fieldwork and practicum opportunities help you gain valuable, in-person experience.
Curriculum
Degree Completion Requirements
- 181 total quarter credits (1 semester credit equals 1.5 quarter credits)
- General education courses (46 cr.)
- Core courses (45 cr.)
- Concentration courses (30 cr.)
- Elective courses (55 cr.)
- Capstone course (5 cr.)
Students may be eligible to transfer up to 135 credits*. At least 45 credits must be completed at Walden.
*Please note: Students that reside in Virginia may be eligible to transfer up to 125 credits. At least 55 credits must be completed at Walden.
View the COMPLETE CURRICULUM PLAN.
Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-695-7576.
Admission Requirements
Admission is considered for adult students who hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria:
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You are 21 years of age or older.
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You are less than 21 years of age with at least 12 quarter credits.
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You are an active member of the military or a veteran with documentation of service.
More information for international applicants.
The progress you make now pays you back. Receive one tuition-free course for every three paid courses you successfully complete. In addition, you’ll receive a $1,500 tuition grant.
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we’re here to support you along your journey.
Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
*Tuition and fees are subject to change. See Tuition and Fees section and Scholarship Details for more information.
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 181 quarter credit hours | $333 per quarter hour | $60,273 |
| Technology Fee | Per quarter | $170 | $2,720 |
| $62,993** | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
-$16,818 $46,175* |
||
*Represents course-based learning format, minimum time to completion, no transfer of credit, and Believe & Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
**Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 135 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $5,000.
Career Outlook
A bachelor’s in human services with a Disability Studies concentration can help you become more confident in your ability to work directly with individuals with disabilities. Pursue a number of non-licensed direct service or entry-level leadership roles in government and community settings. Help those with disabilities reach their potential while building a rewarding career in the human services field.
A BS in Human Services – Disability Studies program can prepare you to pursue career options such as:
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Social and community service manager1
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Social and human service assistant2
A BS in Human Services – Disability Studies program can prepare you to work in settings such as:
- Community and vocational rehabilitation services
- Residential facilities
- State government
- International community service organizations
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
1 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social and Community Service Managers. Retrieved March 2021. National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, do not guarantee actual job growth, and are subject to change.
2 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social and Human Service Assistants. Retrieved March 2021.