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Disability, Aging, and Human Rights

Disability, Aging, and Human Rights studies the intersectionality between disability, health, and aging using a human rights framework. It examines how we can create a more fair and inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.

 

Disability, Aging, and Human Rights at STU

One of few programs in the country­—and the only program in Atlantic Canada—the interdisciplinary major in Disability, Aging, and Human Rights examines disability in the current political landscape through a human rights lens. It is focused on training students with the knowledge and skills to advocate for the rights of those with disabilities.

 

Focus on health and aging

With an aging population in New Brunswick and Canada, the demand is growing for individuals trained in disability studies. Our major includes a focus on health and aging, which allows for a wider breadth of inclusion regarding what constitutes disability, including chronic illnesses, which are often left out of disability studies.

 

Themes You’ll Explore in Disability, Aging, and Human Rights

  • Ageism, Ableism, and Discrimination
  • Mental Health and Neurodiversity
  • History of Disability
  • Cultural Representations and Stigma in Disability
  • Human Rights and Justice
  • Health Disparities
  • Access and Inclusion

What Sets STU's Disability, Aging, and Human Rights Major Apart?

  • Small, engaging classes that emphasize personal interaction, discussion, and debate.

  • Lectures and seminars are always taught by professors—not teaching assistants—which means students learn from experts in the field.

  • The Interdisciplinary nature of the program means courses from multiple fields— like Gerontology, Psychology, and Sociology—will count toward your major and minor in Disability, Aging, and Human Rights. 

Where the Study of Disability, Aging, and Human Rights can Take You

Through the study of Disability, Aging, and Human Rights, students gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills that prepare them to work in a variety of fields, including:

 

  • Health Care
  • Law
  • Policy Analysis
  • Rehabilitation
  • Activism and Disability Rights Advocacy
  • Non-Profit Organizations
  • Civil Service and Government
  • Education

Gain Experience and Build Your Resume

Connect the study of Disability, Aging, and Human Rights with professional experience through the STU Internship Program in positions with:

 

  • Atlantic Human Rights Centre
  • Centre for Innovation and Research and Aging
  • Nashwaak Villa Nursing Home
  • York Care Centre
  • Learning Disabilities Association of New Brunswick
  • Opal Family Services

Featured Courses

Exploring Disability (Human Rights)
Discrimination and the Law in Canada (Human Rights)
Aging and Health (Gerontology)
Sociology of Disease (Sociology)
Disability in History (History)