Disability Studies - Diploma

The Diploma in Disability Studies is a two-year part-time course that explores the social, cultural, and economic factors that shape the experiences of people with disabilities. The program aims to develop students' critical awareness of the issues surrounding disability and to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote inclusion and social change.

Course Outline

The course is divided into two years, with the first year focusing on theoretical approaches to disability and the second year examining more practical issues. The modules for the diploma are as follows:

Year 1

• AD1800: Models of Disability and Support
• AD1801: Perceptions and Portrayals of Disability
• AD1802: Disability and Inclusive Environments
• AD1838: Supporting Equality: Policy and Legislation

Year 2

• AD2831: Group Research Project
• AD2844: Disability and Social Inclusion
• AD2861: Disability and Daily Living
• AD2873: Introduction to Psychology, Disability and Human Rights

Why Choose This Course

This course is ideal for those who want to develop a deeper understanding of disability issues and to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to promote social inclusion. The program is designed to be flexible, with online lectures and in-person workshops, making it accessible to students with varying schedules and commitments.

Benefits to Learners and Their Communities

The course enables learners to develop their critical awareness of disability issues, to become aware of the ways in which different issues overlap, and to explore ways of working around these. The program also equips employers and employees with specific knowledge on how to design and offer placements, work-based roles, and flexible positions to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

Requirements

Applicants must be at least 21 years of age by 1 January of the year of application and must have shown an interest in or be employed in the area of disability. While there are no formal educational requirements, it is expected that proposed candidates will have attained Leaving Certificate/FETAC Level 5 or an equivalent qualification.

Fees and Costs

The fee for the course is 1,500 per academic year. A concession scheme is available for applicants who are in receipt of an eligible Department of Social Protection payment, with a concession fee of 1,000.

How to Apply

To apply for the course, students must submit an online application, which includes uploading required documents such as a birth certificate or passport, a passport photograph, and English language test reports (if applicable). A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the fees is also required to complete the application.

Contact Details

For academic queries and course content queries, please contact the Programme Coordinator. For online application support, please visit the application portal.

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Degree Overview:

The Diploma in Disability Studies is a two-year part-time program offered by University College Cork (UCC) in Ireland. It is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of disability studies, encompassing its theoretical foundations, practical applications, and societal implications. The program aims to challenge conventional understandings of disability and promote inclusivity by exploring the social, political, and cultural factors that contribute to disability and exclusion.

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Objectives:

• Develop critical awareness of the factors influencing the world of disability.
• Understand the interconnectedness of various issues related to disability.
• Examine personal attitudes and societal perspectives towards people with disabilities.
• Gain practical skills for working with individuals and communities affected by disability.
• AD1801: Perceptions and Portrayals of Disability: This module examines how disability is portrayed in various media, literature, and cultural contexts.
It analyzes the impact of these portrayals on societal perceptions and attitudes towards disability. It explores architectural accessibility, transportation, communication, and other aspects of creating a more inclusive society. It analyzes the effectiveness of these policies and explores challenges in their implementation.

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Year 2:

• AD2831: Group Research Project: This module provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic related to disability.
Students work in groups to develop research questions, collect data, analyze findings, and present their results. It examines the barriers to social inclusion and explores strategies for promoting participation and belonging. It covers topics such as assistive technology, personal care, transportation, and community resources.
• AD2873: Introduction to Psychology, Disability and Human Rights: This module introduces students to the field of psychology and its relevance to disability studies.
It explores psychological theories and concepts related to disability, as well as the human rights of people with disabilities.

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Assessment:

• The program utilizes continuous assessment, with no written examinations.
• Assessment methods include essays, journals, legal projects, oral presentations, poster presentations, agency profiles, and a group research project.
• Students are required to complete a reflective statement of learning at the end of each module to encourage critical thinking.

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Teaching:

• The program is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining online lectures and in-person workshops.
• Online lectures are held on Wednesday evenings via Microsoft Teams.
• In-person workshops are held two weekends per semester on the UCC campus.
• The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in disability studies.

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Careers:

• The Diploma in Disability Studies prepares students for a variety of careers in the disability sector.
• Potential career paths include:
• Disability advocacy and support
• Inclusive education
• Accessible design and development
• Policy and research
• Community development
• Social work
• Healthcare

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Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of personal development, fostering skills such as self-confidence, problem-solving, independent self-management, teamwork, and professional presentation.
• The program encourages students to engage with current theories, practices, research, and interventions related to disability.
• The program aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills to better support the inclusion of people with disabilities in society.

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€1,500 per academic year.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.