Course summary

The postgraduate programme in Socio-cultural Disability Studies is designed for teachers, educators, and others with a personal and a professional interest in this field. The programme offers an opportunity for engagement with the key theories, concepts and ideas that will enable you to develop a deep understanding of the social, cultural and educational significance of studying disability. This programme delves into the dynamic field of Socio-cultural Disability Studies, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the social, cultural, and political dimensions surrounding disability. Through an intersectional lens, you will explore the complexities of disability, challenge traditional narratives and interrogate societal norms. The full masters programme (180 credits) will include the study of the following modules: Module 1. Critical and Contemporary Issues in Education (30 credits) The module will explore the multifaceted landscape of education, focusing on critical and contemporary issues that shape the field in the 21st century. Through an interdisciplinary lens, you will engage in deep discussions and critical analyses to develop a nuanced understanding of the education landscape. Module 2. Critical Disability Theory (30 credits) Focusing on critical theory from the modern and postmodern eras, this module provides a basis for an interrogation of Disability Studies and Special Educational Needs. From Freud to Foucault, Goffman to Garland-Thomson, Derrida to Davis, McRuer to Murray, and so on, the module follows the progression of critical disability theory from the early twentieth century to the present day. Though explicitly theoretical, the content of the module is grounded in experiential knowledge. Module 3. Modelling Disability (30 credits) Disability has been conceptualised in many ways and for many purposes. In the past it tended to be non-disabled people who were responsible for the conceptualising and theorising of disability. In recent years, however, thanks largely to disability activism, disabled people have taken control of the ways in which disability is modelled. In order to gain a better idea of what is meant by disability, the module takes a critical journey through religious, charity, medical, social, affirmative, cultural, and other models of disability. Module 4. Free choice Module (30 credits) Depending on whether you start the course in October or February you would have a free choice module which you could select from the modules available that semester. Depending on the module you choose to study, content covered would vary. Please note some modules may have specific entry requirements. The current offer includes modules covering aspects of Special Education Needs or Disability Studies; Advanced Mentoring and Coaching; Early Childhood; or Education Leadership and Management. However, for full time students owing to timetabling constraints some of the options might not be available. Module 5. Dissertation in Education (60 credits) You will consolidate the knowledge of your chosen disciplinary area by completing this module. In doing so you would draw on the knowledge of the different modules you have studied in this course, including the free choice 30 credit module, encouraging interdisciplinary work. With support from a supervisor, it is anticipated you will conceive, develop and complete a high-quality proposal followed by a dissertation within the field of education and aligned to the subject specialism you have opted to study. Emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical application, the dissertation phase will equip you with the necessary skills to engage in rigorous educational research and contribute meaningfully to the academic discourse.