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Disability Studies Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

$59K - $88K/yr

2026-2027 Social Studies Teacher Location: South Valley Academy, Albuquerque, NM (South Valley ... and students with disabilities.RequirementsEducation: Bachelor's degree or higher from an ...

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Disability Studies information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$25

$55

How much do disability studies jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for disability studies in Arizona is $25.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.27 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical responsibilities for professionals working in disability studies within academic or advocacy organizations?

Professionals in Disability Studies often engage in a variety of tasks, including conducting research on disability issues, developing inclusive curriculum, organizing community outreach programs, and advocating for policy changes. They may collaborate closely with people with disabilities, educators, policymakers, and healthcare providers to promote accessibility and social justice. The role typically involves both independent work, such as scholarly writing or data analysis, and teamwork, including coordinating events or leading workshops to raise awareness about disability rights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a disability studies specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Disability Studies Specialist, you need a solid background in disability theory, social sciences, and advocacy, typically supported by a relevant degree or experience in disability services. Familiarity with accessibility laws (like ADA), assistive technologies, and research tools is important. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural competence, and critical thinking skills help in engaging with diverse communities and advancing inclusion. These skills are crucial for effectively challenging barriers, promoting equity, and implementing systemic change for people with disabilities.

What is disability studies?

Disability studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the social, cultural, historical, and political aspects of disability. Rather than focusing solely on medical or clinical perspectives, disability studies examine how society defines, treats, and interacts with people with disabilities. The field aims to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusion, and advocate for the rights of disabled individuals by analyzing policies, representation, and lived experiences. It draws from disciplines such as sociology, history, literature, law, and public health to deepen understanding and foster social change.

What are the qualifications to get a job in disability studies?

The primary qualifications for getting a job in disability studies are a bachelor's degree in a related field and several years of experience. Most employers prefer a master's degree and experience working with federal laws governing disabilities, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These jobs also require the ability to manage and maintain confidential information. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of a job in disability studies requires communication skills, attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to find solutions in time-sensitive situations. Experience is precious in this industry, so the more you work with disability advocacy, the easier it is to find another job in this field. Many people use internships or volunteer their time to gain experience.

What can you do with a degree in disability studies?

A degree in disability studies prepares individuals for careers in advocacy, policy development, social services, education, and healthcare. Graduates can work as disability support specialists, policy analysts, accessibility consultants, or in nonprofit organizations focused on disability rights and inclusion, often requiring strong communication and understanding of legal frameworks like the ADA.

Is disability studies a good major?

Disability studies is an interdisciplinary major that prepares students for careers in advocacy, policy, education, and social services related to disability rights and inclusion. It develops skills in critical thinking, research, and communication, which are valuable in various social and public service roles. The major can lead to employment in non-profits, government agencies, healthcare, and education sectors.

What is the difference between Disability Studies vs Rehabilitation Counselor?

AspectDisability StudiesRehabilitation Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically a Bachelor's or Master's in Disability Studies, Sociology, or related fieldsMaster's in Rehabilitation Counseling or related field, licensure required
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, advocacy organizations, research institutionsHealthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, private practice
Industry UsageFocuses on social, cultural, and policy aspects of disabilityFocuses on individual rehabilitation, counseling, and support services

Disability Studies primarily explores the social and cultural aspects of disability, often within academic or advocacy contexts. Rehabilitation Counselors work directly with individuals to support their rehabilitation and integration into society. While both roles address disability, their focus, credentials, and work environments differ significantly.

Infographic showing various Disability Studies job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,697 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Limited Term Adjunct Instructor (Disability and Psychoeducational Studies)

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


University Of Arizona rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Limited Term Adjunct Instructor (Disability and Psychoeducational Studies)
Posting Number
req26672
Department
Disability Psychoeduc Studies
Department Website Link
https://coe.arizona.edu/dps
Medical Sub-Speciality
Location
Tucson Campus
Address
Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
The Department of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies (DPS), located in the College of Education (COE) at the University of Arizona, is seeking an accomplished educator to join the School Psychology faculty. This will be a non-tenure-track, Limited Term Adjunct Instructor position providing instruction during the fall 2026 semester.
Please note: The teaching schedule may be online, classroom-based, or hybrid, depending on need.
The position is expected to begin August 17, 2026, and end December 20, 2026.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocation services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Foster a positive and supportive learning environment for students.
  • Instruct graduate students in a School Psychology course during the fall 2026 semester.
  • Plan lectures and assignments.
  • Grade assignments, projects, and exams.
  • Support students remotely using online technology.
  • Work collaboratively with School Psychology faculty.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong content-area knowledge and effective teaching skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.

Minimum Qualifications
  • PhD, PsyD, or EdD in School Psychology or a related field.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience teaching and supervising graduate students.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with online learning platforms and remote supervision tools, such as D2L, Zoom, and recording tools.
  • Experience working with individuals from a variety of educational and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Experience in course and curriculum development.

Rank
Instructor
Tenure Information
Adjunct (NTE)
FLSA
Exempt
Full Time/Part Time
Part Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week
8
Job FTE
.20
Work Calendar
Academic
Job Category
Faculty
Benefits Eligible
No Benefits
Rate of Pay
DOE
Compensation Type
Per Course
Type of criminal background check required:
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies
1
Target Hire Date
8/17/2026
Expected End Date
12/20/2026
Contact Information for Candidates
Desiree Vega, PhD
Professor, Disability and Psychoeducational Studies
dvega2@arizona.edu
Open Date
7/30/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Documents Needed to Apply
Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and One Additional Document
Special Instructions to Applicant
Please upload the following documents with your application:
  1. Current curriculum vitae.
  2. Cover letter.
  3. In the additional document slot, the names and contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, of three professional references.

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.

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