Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion (online) PGCert

Source: https://courses.leeds.ac.uk/d328/disability-studies-rights-and-inclusion-pgcert Parent: https://www.leeds.ac.uk/masters-fees/doc/paying-online-courses

Year of entry 2026

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Register your interest

Find out more about our online postgraduate courses in Disability Studies.

Register your interest

Start dates : September 2026 : March 2027

Delivery type : Online exclusive

Duration : 8 Months (Part time)

Entry requirements : A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) and/or relevant experience.\ Full entry requirements

English language requirements : IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component

UK fees : £4,680 (Total)

International fees : £4,680 (Total)

Contact : onlineadmissions@leeds.ac.uk

Related content

Course Terms and Conditions

Find further information in the course terms and conditions

Course overview

Make an impact in Disability Rights with an Online Postgraduate Certificate from the University of Leeds

Take your first steps toward driving change in disability rights, inclusion, and social justice. Our flexible online Postgraduate Certificate in Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion equips you with practical knowledge and skills to address key challenges facing disabled people worldwide. Perfect for those new to the field or seeking a focused, high-impact learning experience.

Why study Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion?

The study of disability has never been more urgent. There are around one billion people worldwide experiencing disability—a number expected to rise with ageing populations, inequality, climate change, conflict, and natural disasters. Disability remains a critical human rights and equality issue, with disabled people more likely to face poverty and reduced education and employment opportunities.

This online Postgraduate Certificate empowers you to understand these challenges, promote the rights of disabled people, and contribute to building inclusive and equitable societies.

Flexible online learning for a global classroom

As an online learner, you’ll join an inclusive classroom with peers from around the world. You’ll explore core concepts in disability studies, with three compulsory modules and one optional module from the full MSc programme.

Whether you’re already active in disability rights or taking your first steps, this PGCert equips you with knowledge, skills, and confidence to be a change-maker in social justice and disability activism.

Across the programme, you will :

• Examine global perspectives on disability, the social creation of disability and social models of disability
• Gain an understanding of cultural and human rights frameworks related to disability
• Analyse how and why disabled people experience inequalities
• building inclusive societies and futures
• Explore the role and impact of disability activism and advocacy with an intersectional approach
• Examine and influence disability policy, services and practice in a range of sectors, including law, architecture and design, medicine and healthcare, and the creative industries disability policy, services and practice in a range of sectors, including law, architecture and design, medicine and healthcare, and the creative industries
• Investigate with other fields such as gender studies, transport studies, geography and beyond geography and beyond
• Consider global challenges like climate change, natural disasters and conflict from a disability rights lens.

Who is this course for?

This Postgraduate Certificate is for learners who want a focused introduction to disability studies and practical skills to make an immediate difference:

• disabled people and their allies
• policy makers and public sector professionals
• Service providers and professionals in disability support
• NGOs and community organisation workers
• those new to disability studies seeking to think about disability differently, looking for a safe, affirming learning environment
• Anyone seeking practical tools to create change in disability rights, inclusion, and social justice.

Why study this subject at Leeds?

• Ranked in the global top 100 and in the top 13 in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2026).
• Delivered by the School of Sociology and Social Policy and informed by our Centre for Disability Studies.
• Taught by expert academics with contributions from activists, policy makers and practitioners with global experience.
• Our academics are well-known for their work in the areas of disability politics, policy and practice, the sociology of disability, disability law and human rights, and inclusive design.
• The School of Sociology and Social Policy ranks in the global top 100 for Sociology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025). The School has an international reputation for research on social change that has set new agendas, developed new concepts and methodologies, and transformed policy and practice.
• Leeds has pioneered education in disability studies since 1990 and is recognised as a global leader in the field recognised as a global leader in the field.
• Our Centre for Disability Studies was the UK’s first university centre dedicated to disability research and teaching.
• Commitment to equity, social justice, and inclusion underpins all our work.
• World-class online learning environment, with regular live interactive sessions and global peer networking.

Watch our recent webinar

Catch up on our recent webinar to see how the MSc in Disability Studies (online) can help you advance your career while promoting inclusion and accessibility.

→ Register your interest to access the full recording.

Join our online taster course

Familiarise yourself with key topics in disability studies by enrolling in our short FutureLearn course, Social Model of Disability. Gain practical insights and tools for inclusivity and empowerment. Sign up for Social Model of Disability.

Why study Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion?

Video transcript\ Audio described version of the video

Course details and modules

Our online PGCert in Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion has been designed to cater for online postgraduate learners from around the world who wish to balance their studies with other commitments.

The course begins with a two-week induction preparing you for successful online study at the University of Leeds and introducing the study skills you will need to complete your degree.

There are four 15-credit taught online modules in the Postgraduate Certificate. Each module runs for eight weeks, with a combination of tutor-guided and self-guided learning. Students usually spend around 10 hours per week on tutor-guided activities and 10 hours on independent study.

Modules are scheduled sequentially, allowing most students to complete the PGCert over approximately 8 months.

Flexible study options mean learners can pause and resume modules as needed, with a maximum completion window of 16 months.

You’ll take part in a weekly scheduled webinar to collaborate with other students and your tutor. Webinars take place during the University of Leeds working day. Webinars are recorded for students who are unable to attend or wish to revisit the content later. A module discussion board and an online programme area will also be available for you to connect with your fellow students and share your learning journey.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion (online) PGCert in the course catalogue

Year 1 compulsory modules

Year 1 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

You will choose 15 credits from the following optional modules.

Learning and teaching

Join our powerful learning network

You’ll be taught by our expert academics with contributions from activists, policy makers and practitioners working in the disability space globally. When you start the course you become a member of our vibrant, global community of over 500 disability studies alumni who have completed Masters or PhD programmes in the field of disability studies at Leeds.

Flexible learning

You can take the course at your own pace and adapt your studies to fit around your work and life commitments. To give you flexibility, it is possible to pause your studies and take them up again at a later point. Most students complete the modules in turn over two years, but there is flexibility to take a break and re-join the programme within a maximum of four years.

If you would like to continue to the next level of qualification beyond the Postgraduate Certificate, you can contact the online admissions team during your studies to discuss your options.

Online learning environment

Your learning will be delivered online via our award-winning virtual learning environment, Minerva. You will study through live online sessions with our module tutors in a mixture of structured and open-ended learning techniques.

We recognise that people have busy lives, so with a 100% online delivery mode, you can manage your learning around your employment and other commitments, without the need to disrupt your life. You will study with a world-leading UK institution without the additional cost of living. We will also provide many tools, including study planners, to help you track your progress and better manage your time.

Read more about studying online with Leeds.

Accessibility

We aim to make your online learning experience as accessible as possible. The majority of the course material conforms to the latest international Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.1 (WCAG 2.1 AAA). For example, all video resources will include captions and transcription, and you’ll have options to participate in online classrooms by both typing and oral speech. Some activities or third-party material may not meet these standards, and we will aim to make any reasonable adjustments that may support your learning. For example, our transcription centre can provide alternative accessible formats.

Minerva is our online learning platform, which can be accessed on different devices including smartphones, tablets and laptop or desktop computers, whenever and wherever it suits you. The platform has been designed by a team of experts to ensure your online learning experience is of the highest quality and prepares you for success, both academically and professionally.\ \ We recommend a high-speed broadband internet connection with a minimum speed of 1.5 Mbps. You will need regular access to a desktop computer, tablet, or laptop, with a webcam. You will also need the ability to view PDF documents and work in Microsoft Office (software and accessible formats provided).

Student support

As an online student with the University of Leeds you will have access to a wide range of student support. Whether in relation to disability, personal tutoring, emergency situations or counselling, you will be supported through every step of your learning journey to ensure you can make the most of your studies. Find out more about our student support service

Disability services at Leeds

Disability Services provides advice, guidance and support to both current and prospective disabled students. There's a wide range of support available to you throughout your studies. You are encouraged contact Disability Services before starting your studies as far in advance as possible, to make sure we can support your learning from the start. Find out more about support for remote learners

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Assessments provide an opportunity for you to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you have developed in the module. You will be able to focus on areas and topics that are important to you.

Each week your learning will be tailored to support you in completing the assessment. You will also have the option to submit your assessments in different ways.

Our assessment methods include:

• case studies
• reports
• inclusive design plan
• briefing papers
• human rights bulletins
• research proposal
• presentations.

Applying

Entry requirements

A 2.1 (hons) bachelor degree, ideally in a social science or humanities related subject.\ OR\ A 2.1 (hons) bachelor degree in any other subject plus relevant experience\ OR\ A 2.2 (hons) degree in any subject with at least three years relevant experience.

Applications will be individually assessed.

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For further information, please contact our admissions team.

English language requirements

Proof of your English Language Proficiency

Proficiency in English language is essential to study at the University of Leeds. You will need either:

• Alternative English Language Qualification
• A degree taught in English from a recognised institution, lasting at least two years at the undergraduate level or one year at the Masters level, which can be evidenced by transcripts and/or certificates.

For more details, contact our Enrolment Advisors at onlineadmissions@leeds.ac.uk

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

How to apply

The link at the top of this page takes you to the University's online application system, where you can start your application for this course.

If you require assistance in completing the online application, please contact onlineadmissions@leeds.ac.uk and a member of our team will be happy to help.

Identification

The University of Leeds requires all applicants for fully online programmes to provide proof of their identity at the point of application. Accepted forms of ID are:

• passport photo page, or
• driving licence, or
• national identity card.

Candidates may be invited to interview by telephone or online as part of the selection process.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

School of Sociology and Social Policy

Contact us

Online Admissions team

Email: onlineadmissions@leeds.ac.uk\ Telephone:

Fees

UK: £4,680 (Total)

International: £4,680 (Total)

These fees apply to those starting their course between September 2025 and July 2026.

The fee is composed of (which can be paid on a module-by-module basis*):

• four taught modules (15 credits each): £1,170 per module

*If you are receiving a student loan or your fees are being paid directly to the University by your employer or sponsor you will not be able to pay on a module-by-module basis. Please check with the Online Admissions Team.

Additional cost information

Read more about paying for online courses.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

Graduates of the University of Leeds (or an affiliated institution) are entitled to a 10% bursary towards tuition fees. Find out more about eligibility for the alumni bursary and how to apply.

UK students may be able to apply for a UK government-backed loan and there may be specific terms and conditions for online courses. Applications should be made through the Student Loans Company. Visit the UK Government website to find out more.

If you have a disability there are a range of external funding and scholarships that you may be eligible for, including:

• Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) - UK students may be eligible for a government bursary that can fund additional support for your studies. Find out more about the Disabled Students Allowance.

Career opportunities

The School of Sociology and Social Policy and our Centre for Disability Studies have long established links with organisations in the UK and overseas. Our experts provide research and consultancy, working with local, national and international organisations to help achieve equality and social justice for disabled people, globally. Our influential network of academics and professionals includes organisations such as the European Network on Independent Living, UNESCO, the International Disability Alliance and Harvard Law School’s Project on Disability.

Thanks to our global connections, you’ll be able to hear first-hand from inspiring contributors about the real-world challenges and opportunities for your future career. Your applied project is also an opportunity to explore an area you’re passionate about, with the opportunity to work in partnership with an appropriate organisation, and with expert academic supervision.

The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will equip you to develop your career in governments and organisations around the globe in a wide range of professional fields. This may include health and social support services, activism, education, arts and creative sectors, statutory and voluntary agencies, legal services, national and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs and INGOs), human resources, business environments and charities. You would also be well prepared for further research at PhD level and careers in disability research or academia.

Hear from our graduates

Gill Brown graduated from this course with a PG Cert, and talks about her experience studying online with Leeds on her student profile. You can read her text account and watch her post-graduation video interview.

Careers support

You will have access to the University of Leeds Careers Service’s extensive online resources to help you make the most of your studies and support you to achieve your ambitions.

This includes:

• One-to-one support from a careers advisor via telephone or virtual meeting
• Online career workshops and webinars
• A database of job opportunities and online employer events
• E-resources including the University of Leeds LinkedIn Learning platform
• CV writing tips
• Job application support
• Interview skills advice and practice sessions

The Careers Service can often connect students wishing to work in a specific region with other students in the same country to assist with job seeking. The service can also offer professional development access to our alumni network, online careers support and employer links.

Related courses

Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion (online) MSc (Part time)

Duration : 24 Months (Part time)

Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion (online) PGDip (Part time)

Duration : 16 Months (Part time)

Rankings and awards

[#### Top 100 in the world for Sociology

QS World Rankings by Subject 2025](https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-ranking) [#### Top 20 in the UK for Sociology & Social Policy

The Guardian University League Tables 2025](https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2024/sep/07/best-uk-universities-for-sociology-social-policy-league-table)

Alumni profile: Gill Brown

I think disabled people are often looked upon to advocate for all disabled people. So it's really important that non-disabled people are as educated.

Find out more about Gill Brown's time at Leeds