The MA and PhD degrees in the Graduate Program in Critical Disability Studies (CDS) offer a research-intensive, interdisciplinary curriculum that examines disability through perspectives on social policy, social justice, human rights, and cultural movements in Canada and worldwide. Guided by an intersectional framework, students engage with diverse scholarly perspectives, lived experience, and innovative research that contributes to conversations on disability, inclusion, equity, and social change at national and international levels.
Please note that, due to government funding regulations, the program is unable to offer funding packages to international students. Please further note that due to the absence of subsidy, international students pay substantially higher tuition costs than domestic students. We strongly encourage applications from individuals historically underrepresented in academia, including 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and disabled communities, as well as those with diverse lived experiences and perspectives.
NOTE: Please make sure to review our Admission Requirements and How to Apply web pages. We also have a number of admission sessions throughout the year for both domestic and international students, including weekly virtual drop-in hours. Discover our events for Future Students.

Admission Requirements
Find out what you need in order to apply to our program.

How to Apply
Preparing your application requires research and planning. Let us guide you through a successful application process.

York Graduate Funding
Information on funding graduate education at York University.

Scholarships and Awards
Information on awards and scholarships offered to graduate students at York University.
Your Graduate Studies Advantages

Personal
The chance to engage with and learn from a community that is as passionate about your field as you are.

Career
People with graduate degrees have the lowest level of unemployment, the most stable employment rate, and the best employment prospects

Academic
The potential to contribute to scholarly dialogue and community building through attending conferences and publishing.

Learn More
The Graduate Program in Critical Disability Studies at York is an exciting environment to pursue innovative, socially engaging, career-ready education. Contact our Graduate Program Assistant to learn more.

