Disability Studies and Psychology bachelor
Main Campus, Canada
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Disability Studies and Psychology
University of Windsor
Disability Studies and Psychology
Program Overview: Disability Studies and Psychology at the University of Windsor
The Disability Studies and Psychology program at the University of Windsor provides training in both psychology and disability studies, focusing on psychological and social models of disability while exposing students to real-world learning experiences. This interdisciplinary program equips you with the knowledge and experience-based practice to advocate for social justice, anti-oppressive needs, and accessibility for people with disabilities.
Through coursework and community experience placements in disability settings, you will develop advocacy skills that prepare you for work in academic, health, social service, and government organizations. The program is offered jointly by the Department of Psychology and the Department of Interdisciplinary and Critical Studies, giving you access to expertise across multiple disciplines.
As a student in this program, you will benefit from the University of Windsor's emphasis on experiential learning, including volunteer opportunities and community placements that add practical value to your degree. The university also offers a first-year mentorship program where upper-year students provide guidance and support to incoming psychology majors.
Key Program Highlights
- Interdisciplinary training combining psychology and disability studies with a focus on social justice and advocacy
- Community experience placements in disability settings providing hands-on, real-world learning opportunities
- Exclusive first-year mentorship course pairing new students with upper-year psychology student mentors
- Joint program offered by the Department of Psychology and the School of Social Work, the only program of its kind in North America
Curriculum and Course Modules
The Disability Studies and Psychology curriculum blends foundational psychology coursework with specialized disability studies modules. You will explore theories of disability, psychological research methods, and community-based practice, culminating in a field placement experience in your senior year.
Introduction to Psychology as a Social Science
3 creditsAn introductory course covering foundational concepts in psychology, including research methods, human behaviour, cognition, and social influences. This course is exclusive to psychology majors and includes peer mentorship from upper-year students.
Theories of Disability and the Social Model
3 creditsThis course explores the multiple meanings of disability, critically examining how Western economic, medical, moral, and social norms produce social exclusion and marginalization. Students are introduced to key disability studies theorists and social justice models that resist ableism.
Developmental Psychology
3 creditsA comprehensive study of human development across the lifespan, examining physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes from infancy through late adulthood. The course integrates disability perspectives into developmental frameworks.
Historical Approaches to People with Disabilities
3 creditsThis course traces the historical treatment and representation of people with disabilities across cultures and time periods. Students critically analyze how historical attitudes have shaped contemporary policies and practices.
Community Approaches, Advocacy and Empowerment
3 creditsStudents critically review traditional approaches to professional practice with people with disabilities, with special attention to the role of advocacy and empowerment in community settings. The course prepares students for effective community-based work.
Social Justice in Action
3 creditsStudents investigate the local and global origins of contemporary social problems through the eyes of social justice activists. This course emphasizes applied learning and critical analysis of systemic inequities affecting people with disabilities.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Disability Studies and Psychology requires completion of secondary education equivalent to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). International applicants must demonstrate academic qualifications equivalent to Canadian standards, and all applications are processed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary School DiplomaOntario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent international qualification
- Minimum Average70% minimum overall average in Grade 12 courses
- Required CoursesSix Grade 12 U or M courses including Grade 12 University-level English (ENG4U)
- International EquivalencyApplicants educated outside Canada must submit evidence of education equivalent to the OSSD with grades converted to Ontario equivalents
- Additional ConsiderationRelevant volunteer experience or community involvement in disability-related settings is an asset
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL (Computer-based)Minimum score of 220 with Test of Written English score of 4.5
- IELTSMinimum overall band score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0
- English Language Improvement Program (ELIP)Students who do not meet English requirements may be eligible for conditional admission through the ELIP pathway
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Windsor awards approximately CAD 14 million in scholarships and financial aid annually. International students are automatically considered for several entrance scholarship programs, and additional funding opportunities are available based on academic merit and financial need.
Open Entrance Scholarship - President's Level
CAD 2,000 per termAwarded to incoming international students with outstanding academic records. This renewable scholarship is automatically considered upon admission and recognizes top-performing students at the highest support tier.
International Student Renewable Scholarship of Excellence
CAD 5,000 per year for up to 4 yearsAvailable to international students with an entering average of at least 80%. Students must maintain a minimum 75% cumulative average to retain this renewable award throughout their degree.
Student Support Bursary for International Students
Up to CAD 1,000 per academic yearA needs-based bursary designed to support international students experiencing financial difficulty during their studies. Additional emergency relief funding may also be available through the International Student Centre.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects and Opportunities
Graduates of the Disability Studies and Psychology program are prepared for careers across a wide range of sectors, including social services, healthcare, education, government, and non-profit organizations. The combination of psychological training and disability advocacy skills makes graduates highly sought after in fields focused on accessibility, inclusion, and social justice.
Potential Career Paths
Types of Employing Organizations
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Windsor has achieved strong global rankings and continues to rise in international assessments. The university's Psychology department is specifically recognized for research excellence, placing in the top 301-400 range globally in Times Higher Education subject rankings for 2025.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology | THE Subject Rankings | #301-400 |
| Social Sciences | QS World University Rankings | Top 500 |
| Engineering | THE Subject Rankings | #301-400 |
| Computer Science | THE Subject Rankings | #301-400 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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