Online Graduate Certificate in Accessibility and Disability Studies

Four required courses plus approved elective credits constitute the 19-credit certificate. This can be used as a specialization within some master’s degree programs.

Our students have said….

“I was already responsible for accessibility implementation at my job, but did not have the background to understand all the implications. This program was a game-changer for me and for my work.”

“This program promised to help me on the job but it delivered even more for my personal development. Accessibility and disability are part of everyone’s life.”

“I’m kind of embarrassed to admit how ableist I was. I learned to recognize the subtle ways people are excluded. And I learned how to be an advocate.”

Program Requirements

United Nations' symbol of accessibility, a stick figure with outstretched arms contained in a globe-like circle.
  1. Prerequisites: You must have a bachelor’s degree and be accepted by the School of Graduate Studies & Research.
  2. Required Courses: 17 credits.
    1. ASP 505 Accessibility & User Experience (4 cr). Every quarter.
    2. ASP 525 Universal Design (5 cr). Fall, Summer.
    3. ASP 535 Accessible Information Design (5 cr). Spring, Summer.
    4. ASP 585 Accessibility Capstone (3 cr). Spring, Summer. 
  3. Elective Requirements: At least 2 program-approved elective credits. Examples:
    1. ASP 510 Current Issues in Accessibility (1 cr). Every quarter. Repeatable.
    2. ASP 520 Universal Design for Learning (4 cr). Summer.
    3. ASP 540 Accessibility, Disability, & Social Justice (4 cr). Winter of odd years.
    4. ASP 552 Media Portrayals of Disability (4 cr). Winter of even years.
    5. ASP 575 Research Methods (2-7 cr). Every quarter. Repeatable.
    6. ASP 592 Accessibility Practicum (2-10 cr). Every quarter. Repeatable.
  4. Completion Requirements: All courses must be passed with at least a C+ final grade; The culminating exam must be passed with at least 75%.

Advising Notes

  • All classes are online with synchronous meeting opportunities.
  • Three courses (510, 575, and 592) are repeatable. 575 and 592 are variable credit.
  • If you need more than one quarter to complete your ASP 585 Capstone, you must be continuously enrolled (e.g. ASP 575 or 592) until you finish.

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Questions? Contact Us.

Accessibility and Disability Studies

Dr. Naomi Jeffery Petersen, Director
Black Hall 214-5