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Disability Studies

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Disability Studies

Get ready for work that matters.  Acquire the skills needed to support individuals with disabilities in reaching their goals at school, at work, and in daily life. This essential, people-focused work promotes inclusion, helps build stronger, more connected communities, and brings real purpose and meaning to your career. 

What to expect from the program

The Disability Studies program is a two-year diploma that will help you develop the skills needed to effectively work in supporting individuals with disabilities across their lifespan, including in early intervention, community settings, schools, recreation, and employment.  

You will learn: 

  • Human development, behaviour, and exceptionalities 
  • Person-centred planning 
  • Community participation opportunities and planning 
  • Advocacy skills 
  • Communication skills 
  • And more 

Graduate ready to become a disability support worker with the skills to create, implement, assess, and modify plans that build on strengths and abilities and increase avenues for meaningful participation in the community and society. 

Graduate with experience

NorQuest College believes in the importance of on-the-job experience that provides an enriched learning opportunity.

You’ll graduate from this program with 400 hours of field experience and 90 hours of field practicum seminar.

Your delivery option

To support your learning experience, this program is offered in the following format:

In person

Classes are held in a classroom with face-to-face instruction and regularly scheduled meeting times. 

Career opportunities

The program prepares graduates for a variety of roles in the community disability sector. This may include working for an agency or directly with families to support individuals receiving services through programs such as Family Support for Children with Disabilities or Persons with Developmental Disabilities. Graduates may work with individuals across their lifespan in areas such as early intervention, home living, employment, and community access.

Employment opportunities include:

  • Community disability support worker
  • Community outreach worker
  • Development support worker
  • Early interventionist
  • Education assistant
  • Employment assistance worker
  • Home support worker
  • Managers of agencies
  • Residential assistant
  • Therapeutic assistant (behaviour)

This program prepares you to step confidently into your field while providing the flexibility to continue your education. Credits you earn may be transferable toward additional diplomas, degrees, or certifications—helping you advance your career and increase your earning potential.

Explore transfer pathways 

Have a question about the Disability Studies program?

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