The University of Illinois at Chicago was the first school to offer a Ph.D. in disability studies. The program is housed in the human development college, and so a major focus throughout is the lifespan development of individuals with disabilities. Students also have the option of enrolling in a concentration in gender and women's studies to complement the degree. Students who complete this program will be prepared to move on to positions in policy reform, education, community services and disability services, such as the creation of new software for persons with disabilities.
Chapman University in California offers a Ph.D. in education with a concentration in disability studies. The concentration in disability studies is where students complete electives in the discipline. Courses include international perspectives on disability, neurobiological learning and current issues in education. All courses have an educational basis, preparing students for leadership roles in education and research positions.
National Louis University in Chicago offers a Ph.D. in Disability and Equity in Education. Degree requirements include choosing a minor in which students will take elective courses. Minors include language, social inquiry, educational psychology and technology; students are encouraged to choose a minor based on interests and career goals. The program prepares students for leadership roles in education and community services, such as assistive government resources for disabled individuals.
Syracuse University in New York state offers a Ph.D. in disability studies. The program at Syracuse has a cross-disability perspective, meaning curriculum includes study of people with a broad range of disabilities. Based on interests, students are encouraged to take courses with different departments, such as the school of education, the public policy center and the college of law. The program prepares students for research positions, policy and advocacy roles.