Master of Disability and Inclusion

Program Overview

The Master of Disability and Inclusion equips students with the knowledge and skills to drive social change and promote inclusive practices. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of disability theory, policy, and practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the disability sector, including policy development, program management, research, and advocacy.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Master of Disability and Inclusion

The Master of Disability and Inclusion is a graduate coursework program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive social change and promote inclusive practices. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of disability theory and practice, human rights and equality, and research and leadership roles within the growing disability industry.

Objectives:

• Empower students to champion social change and advocate for inclusive societies.
• Develop students' knowledge and understanding of disability theory, policy, research, and practice.
• Prepare students for leadership roles in the disability sector, with a focus on research, policy analysis, and service delivery.
• Cultivate an understanding of the social determinants of health and disability and their impact on individuals and communities.
• Equip students with the research skills necessary to contribute to the evidence base for inclusive practices and policies.

Description:

The Master of Disability and Inclusion curriculum is informed by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Australia's national and international approaches to disability, including the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The program emphasizes contemporary international and national developments in disability legislation, policy, research, and practice. Students explore core concepts in disability and inclusion through contemporary theory, government policy, and practice. They critically engage with theory, policy, and practice in the context of the lived experiences of people with disabilities. Topics covered include:

• Disability and Inclusion: Contemporary Theory and Lived Experience
• Planning for Inclusion Across the Life Course
• Determinants of Health and Wellbeing in the Lives of People with Disability
• Community Capacity Building - Theory and Practice for Inclusion
• Inclusive Design and Technology
• Research Literacy
In addition to core units, students select electives that complement their studies in Disability and Inclusion. These electives can be chosen from various disciplines, including human rights, social justice, public health, health promotion, design, and humanitarian leadership. The program offers two pathways for completion: a 1.5-year full-time or part-time equivalent pathway, or a pathway that includes a research project (Major Project). The Major Project provides students with an opportunity to develop and conduct a significant research project under the supervision of a faculty member. Students who complete the Major Project pathway are well-prepared for further research studies, including a PhD.

Outline:

Core Units:

• Academic Integrity Module (0 credit points)
• Disability and Inclusion: Contemporary Theory and Lived Experience (1 credit point)
• Planning for Inclusion Across the Life Course (1 credit point)
• Determinants of Health and Wellbeing in the Lives of People with Disability (1 credit point)
• Community Capacity Building - Theory and Practice for Inclusion (1 credit point)
• Inclusive Design and Technology (1 credit point)
• Research Literacy (1 credit point)

Elective Units:

• Design Thinking and Problem Solving (1 credit point)
• Introduction to International and Community Development (1 credit point)
• Participatory and Community Development Practice (1 credit point)
• Cross Cultural Communication and Practice (1 credit point)
• The Humanitarian World (1 credit point)
• Humanitarian Knowledge and Principles (1 credit point)
• The Humanitarian World (1 credit point)
• Making Policy (1 credit point)
• The United Nations and International Organisation (1 credit point)
• Human Rights in World Politics (1 credit point)
• Social Media Collaboration (1 credit point)
• Social Media Content Creation (1 credit point)
• Teaching and Learning in the Inclusive Classroom (1 credit point)
• Social Justice and Difference (1 credit point)
• Auslan and the Deaf Community: Health and Wellbeing (1 credit point)
• Principles and Practice of Public Health (1 credit point)
• Health Promotion (1 credit point)
• Qualitative Health Research (1 credit point)
• Health Equity and Human Rights (1 credit point)
• Community Consultation and Participation (1 credit point)
• Postgraduate Health Practicum (1 credit point)
• International Perspectives in Health and Social Development (1 credit point)
• Health Law and Ethics (1 credit point)
• Social Psychology (1 credit point)
• Australian Aboriginal Holistic Health and Healing (1 credit point)

Assessment:

Assessment in the Master of Disability and Inclusion is designed to reflect professional practice and current trends in the disability field. Students are evaluated on their ability to:

• Demonstrate a critical understanding of disability theory, policy, and practice.
• Analyze and evaluate disability-related research.
• Apply theoretical frameworks to practical challenges in the disability sector.
• Communicate effectively about disability issues to a range of audiences.
• Collaborate effectively with people with disabilities, families, and other stakeholders.
• Design and evaluate inclusive practices and interventions.

Teaching:

The Master of Disability and Inclusion is taught by a team of experienced academics and practitioners who are actively engaged in research and scholarship in the disability field. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Case studies
• Simulation exercises
• Group projects
• Online discussions
The program provides opportunities for students to engage with people with disabilities, family members, and other stakeholders in the disability sector. Students are encouraged to undertake placements or internships in disability organizations to gain practical experience.

Careers:

The Master of Disability and Inclusion prepares graduates for leadership roles in the disability sector, including:

• Policy development and analysis
• Program planning and evaluation
• Service delivery management
• Research and teaching
• Advocacy and social change
The program also equips graduates with the skills to work effectively with:
• People with disabilities
• Families and carers
• Disability support organizations
• Government agencies
• Community groups
Graduates of the program are highly sought after by a wide range of employers in the disability sector, the public service, and the not-for-profit sector.