1

Disability Studies Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Disability Studies information

See Hawaii salary details

$9

$28

$60

How much do disability studies jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for disability studies in Hawaii is $28.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.84 and $31.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

Is disability studies a good major?

Disability studies is an interdisciplinary major that explores social, cultural, and policy aspects of disability, preparing students for careers in advocacy, social services, education, and policy analysis. It develops skills in critical thinking, research, and communication, which are valuable in various roles supporting individuals with disabilities. The major often requires coursework in sociology, psychology, and law, and can lead to diverse employment opportunities in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and healthcare settings.

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 coordinators, or in community organizations, often requiring strong communication and understanding of legal and social frameworks related to disability rights.

What are popular job titles related to Disability Studies jobs in Hawaii?

For Disability Studies jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Disability Studies jobs in Hawaii look for?

The top searched job categories for Disability Studies jobs in Hawaii are:

Infographic showing various Disability Studies job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,572 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Lecturer (UHM/College of Education/Center on Disability Studies)

University of Hawaii

Honolulu, HI • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


University Of Hawaii System rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Location : UH Manoa, Honolulu, HI
Job Type: Part-Time Temporary
Job Number: 2018-00090
Department: University of Hawai'i at Manoa - College of Education - Center on Disability Studies
Opening Date: 02/26/2018
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Number:: PENDING
Description
Title: Lecturer (UHM/College of Education/Center on Disability Studies)
Hiring Unit: College of Education
Location: Manoa
Date Posted: February 26, 2018
Closing Date: Continuous
Other conditions: Lecturer applicant pool for future semesters; temporary, part-time work, as needed, contingent upon student enrollment, position availability and funding. May be for day, evening, or weekend offerings on- and off-campus. Selectee is required to complete the COE New Faculty orientation in the first year and pass a criminal background check and Title IX training.
Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Teach various undergraduate and graduate level courses in the Center on Disability Studies (CDS).
  2. Prepare course syllabi that meets COE accreditation standards.
  3. Mentor and assist students.
  4. Complete grades on a timely basis.
  5. Attend faculty meetings and other duties that the supervisor assigns.
  6. Adhere to COE and CDS guidelines on the accessibility of all course materials, online platforms and content, and instructional methods.
Minimum Qualifications
  1. A Master's degree in Education, Disability Studies or related field from a college or university of recognized standing, with the major work in the field in which the instructional assignment is made; equivalent experience in a relevant area will be considered.
  2. Evidence of ability to teach effectively and to direct group discussions.
  3. Poise and good address for meeting and conferring with others.
  4. Ability to travel independently to various geographical locations in a timely manner. Requirement may be fulfilled by a valid Hawai'i Driver's License (class 3), comparable driver's license, or other means of transportation which meets position needs.
  5. Any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated.
Desirable Qualifications
  1. Experience teaching at the College level.
  2. Experience teaching online.
  3. Experience teaching students from various backgrounds, including students with disabilities.

To Apply:
Click on the "Apply" button on the top right corner of the screen to complete an application and attach required documents. Documents include: (1) cover letter indicating how you satisfy the minimum and desirable qualifications, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) name and contact information of three (3) professional references and (4) official transcripts (copies of official transcripts are acceptable; however, original official transcripts will be required at the time of hire.) Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application will be considered incomplete if material is unreadable. Note: If you have not applied for a position before using NEOGOV, you will need to create an account.
Inquiries: Lauren Lum Ho, 808-956-3369, laurenlh@hawaii.edu
EEO, Clery Act, ADA
The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status. For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/
Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks.
In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office.
Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/

What University Of Hawaii System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of Hawaii logo

About University of Hawaii

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Hawaii, located in Honolulu, HI, US, is an internationally recognized institution of higher learning. Spanning across ten campuses, including one online university, it represents the public system of higher education in the state of Hawaii. Established in 1907, the university operates in the educational services industry, its mission rooted in quality and affordable education for all. It offers over 600 different study programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a broad spectrum of disciplines. Some of its unrivaled specialties encompass tropical agriculture, tropical medicine, oceanography, astronomy, electrical engineering, volcanology, and Pacific Islands and Asian area studies.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Honolulu, HI, US

Year founded

1907