New Program in Disability, Aging, and Human Rights Prepares Students to Advocate for Fair, Inclusive Society

A new interdisciplinary major at St. Thomas will prepare students to work toward a more fair and inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.

 

The Disability, Aging, and Human Rights program — the only one of its kind in Atlantic Canada — studies the intersectionality between disability, health, and aging through a human rights framework. It is focused on training students with the knowledge and skills to advocate for the rights of those with disabilities.

 

“Our program is different in that it looks at disability through a human rights framework rather than simply the societal model of disability,” said Dr. Amanda DiPaolo, program coordinator.

 

“By framing disability from a human rights perspective, and with an added focus on health and aging, the disability major allows for a wider breadth of inclusion regarding what constitutes disability, including chronic illnesses and mental health issues.”

 

As an interdisciplinary major, the program will include courses from multiple fields, including Gerontology, Psychology, and Sociology. Students studying Disability, Aging, and Human Rights will explore a wide range of themes—from ageism and discrimination to cultural representations and stigma in disability.

 

“New Brunswick needs a variety of health care professionals, including care workers and those who can work with older adults and those with various disabilities,” Dr. DiPaolo said.

 

“This program connects the university’s emphasis on social justice values and liberal arts offerings with the theory and practical skills needed to work in a variety of care fields, nonprofits, and policy positions post-graduation.”

 

Interested students can complete a major or minor in Disability, Aging, and Human Rights. Learn more at STU.ca/disabilitystudies

 

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)