Disability Law & Policy

Disability Law & Policy at the National University of Ireland offers students an in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks, policy developments, and human rights issues related to disability. The programme is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for shaping effective laws and policies that promote equality, inclusion, and social justice for individuals with disabilities. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics such as international conventions like the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, national legislation, disability advocacy, and the social model of disability. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis of current legal and policy challenges, fostering an understanding of how legal instruments influence social change and improve access to education, employment, healthcare, and public services for disabled persons.

The programme combines academic study with real-world applications by incorporating case studies, policy analysis, and internships with relevant organizations. Students will learn to interpret and develop legislation, evaluate policy initiatives, and engage with stakeholders across sectors. The course also aims to develop essential skills such as legal research, policy drafting, advocacy, and effective communication. Graduates will be prepared for careers in law, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, international bodies, and advocacy groups working to advance the rights of persons with disabilities. By offering a comprehensive exploration of disability law and policy, the programme strives to foster a new generation of professionals committed to creating more equitable legal and social environments upon graduation.

Areas of interest

• UN disability law
• EU anti-discrimination law
• Council of Europe disability law & policy
• US disability law
• United Nations Convention on the right of Persons with disabilities (ratification, monitoring, implementation)
• Legal capacity law reform

Requirements

• To be eligible to enrol for the PhD, a candidate must have obtained a high honours standard at primary degree level, normally Second Class Honours, Grade 1 or equivalent international qualification
• PhD applicants who hold a Masters Degree must have obtained a high honours standard at Masters Level (H2.1 [or equivalent international qualification]) in order to enrol for the PhD
• You'll need to submit a research proposal along with your application.  This application will take two steps:
• A potential supervisor must review and approve
• Submit your applicaton through the online PAC system.
• All applicants, whose first language is not English, must present one of the following qualifications in the English language. IELTS 6.5. TOEFL 92. 
• A personal statement
• Transcripts
• CV

The Financing Studies of the Disability Law & Policy program at the National University of Ireland primarily encompass a comprehensive overview of the financial aspects involved in pursuing higher education and related activities within the scope of disability law and policy. Students are encouraged to explore various funding options available through national and international scholarship programs, government grants, and university-specific financial aid initiatives aimed at supporting students with disabilities. The program provides detailed information on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines for these financial resources to ensure equitable access to education. Additionally, the curriculum includes modules on financial management and planning tailored to individuals with disabilities, equipping students with the skills to effectively manage personal funding, navigate legal reimbursements, and understand the economic implications of disability policies. The university offers guidance on accessing Disability Support Services, which often include financial assistance to accommodate specific needs, such as assistive technologies, mobility aids, or tailored academic support. Students are also informed about external funding sources, including European Union grants and nonprofit organization sponsorships that focus on disability rights and inclusion. The program emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in advocating for disability rights, enabling future legal professionals to understand the economic context of policy development and implementation. Moreover, the university provides workshops and tutorials on applying for student loans and bursaries, ensuring that students are well-prepared to manage their educational investments. Overall, the Financing Studies component aims to empower students with the knowledge and resources necessary to pursue their studies without undue financial hardship, fostering an inclusive academic environment where all students can succeed regardless of their economic background.

The Disability Law & Policy programme at the National University of Ireland offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the legal frameworks, policies, and human rights issues related to disability. This programme combines interdisciplinary approaches, integrating legal studies, social policy, and human rights perspectives to prepare graduates for careers in advocacy, policy development, law, and related fields. Throughout the course, students explore key topics such as disability legislation in Ireland and globally, the social and legal conceptions of disability, and the impact of policies on individuals’ rights and access to services. The programme also emphasizes critical analysis of contemporary issues such as discrimination, accessibility, and inclusive education, fostering a nuanced understanding of the barriers faced by people with disabilities and the legal mechanisms available to overcome them.

Students engage with a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, case law analysis, and practical policy evaluations. The curriculum often features guest lectures from industry experts, policymakers, and representatives from disability advocacy organizations, providing valuable insights into current debates and challenges in the field. The programme may also include opportunities for internships or fieldwork, allowing students to gain real-world experience and develop professional connections within the disability rights sector. This experiential learning component is designed to enhance employability and prepare graduates for roles in law firms, governmental agencies, NGOs, and international organizations working on disability rights and policy reform.

The faculty delivering this programme comprises esteemed scholars and practitioners with extensive experience in disability law, human rights law, and policy analysis. The programme is typically delivered over one or two academic years, depending on whether students study on a full-time or part-time basis. Graduates of the programme are well-positioned to influence policy changes, advocate for legal reforms, and contribute to scholarly research in disability law and policy. Overall, the programme aims to foster a critical understanding of disability rights issues and to empower students to become effective agents of change in creating inclusive societies.