Disability Studies Diploma

Prospective Students

Admission has been suspended for this program for the Fall 2013 semester.

If you have submitted an application to this program, the Admissions & Recruitment Office will contact you directly by mail to provide further information on your application.

 We thank you for considering Mount Royal University and we hope to be able to continue assisting you in your academic pursuits.

Current Students

Students who are currently enrolled in this program will have the opportunity to complete their program. These students will receive direct communication from their faculty departments and/or Enrolment Services.

Students pursuing other programs at Mount Royal University will not be affected.

There is a tremendous need in our society for individuals with the dedication, knowledge and ability to support people with disabilities.

The Mount Royal University two-year program in Disability Studies combines theory with supervised practical experience and prepares you to help make a difference in people’s lives. You grow as a person and a professional, building on your own values, beliefs and strengths. The Disability Studies diploma provides students with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to take an active role in creating diverse, inclusive communities, while helping people with disabilities reach their maximum potential.

The two-year diploma program gives you the theory and practice you’ll need to make a powerful contribution to individual lives.

Theory into action

Extensive hands-on experience is woven into the program. With practicum opportunities in Calgary or abroad, you will work with diverse groups of people with disabilities and be equipped for a rewarding career.

Experience wanted

You will gain knowledge and practical experience in a variety of areas, including:

• current approaches to supporting people with disabilities at work, at home and in the broader community
• contemporary social issues and policy
• psychological, social and medical aspects of disability
• interpersonal communication
• contemporary strategies in community development and advocacy

Rewarding, challenging career avenues

The Disability Studies diploma opens the door to careers that are both personally and professionally rewarding. With your disabilities studies preparation, you are ready to contribute as a team leader in a disability-serving agency, community support worker, teaching assistant in a special or integrated educational environment, special needs worker in a day care setting or as a care worker with older adults. You may work with government programs, school boards and private or non-profit organizations.

Industry Demand

There is a high and continuing demand for Disability Studies graduates in Alberta. Graduates of the Disability Studies Diploma Program are well prepared to move into supervisory roles in many organizations throughout the province.

Further education

Courses from the Disability Studies diploma can be transferred to the Mount Royal University - Bachelor of Applied Child Studies or the University of Calgary’s Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation program. You may also receive partial (to full) transfer to other North American universities.

Gain international perspective

You will have the opportunity to study and work abroad through partnerships established with leading institutions in England, Mexico and Malaysia. International study is a great way to broaden your perspective and gain cultural awareness and appreciation of different systems and policies.