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Disability Studies Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Access Consultant

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Bachelor's degree in education, student affairs, disability studies, counseling, or an equivalent field of study * Two (2) years of experience in higher education or professional disability-related ...

... study strategies. * Ensure that all accommodations and support services, including academic ... Align disability support services with broader retention initiatives to ensure that students with ...

... study strategies. * Ensure that all accommodations and support services, including academic ... Align disability support services with broader retention initiatives to ensure that students with ...

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential ... Monitor the progress of studies and after consultation with senior staff, report the results to the ...

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential ... Monitor the progress of studies and after consultation with senior staff, report the results to the ...

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Disability Studies information

See Indiana salary details

$8

$24

$53

How much do disability studies jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for disability studies in Indiana is $24.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $27.94 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 Indiana?

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

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Disability Studies jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Disability Studies job openings:

Infographic showing various Disability Studies job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,847 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Access Consultant

West Lafayette, IN • On-site


Purdue University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Free food

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$13 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Access Consultant
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Purdue University is looking for the right candidate to fill the role of Access Consultant. Reporting to the Deputy Director of the Disability Resource Center (DRC), the Access Consultant engages students with disabilities in an interactive process to develop accommodations, provide support for a caseload of students, refer students to appropriate campus resources, and provide education, training, and support to campus and community partners. Access Consultants will be able to engage with a team of over 20 people within the office.
About Purdue and the Disability Resource Center (DRC):
Purdue's DRC is a highly collaborative working environment. The office is focused on ensuring access to all functions and facilities of the university. The DRC is housed in recently renovated spaces to support staff growth. Purdue leadership enthusiastically supports the DRC's work and has continually provided necessary resources to respond to growth in the population to be served and support DRC staff. The Disability Resource Center continues to grow and evolve and continue to showcase access as a shared responsibility.

Responsibilities:
  • Meets with students seeking disability-related accommodations
  • Develop reasonable and appropriate accommodations related to academic, housing, dining, and parking needs
  • Utilize knowledge of disability law (Section 504, 508, and ADAA)
  • Maintain accurate student records and notes to ensure consistency and appropriate data collection.
  • Oversee a caseload of over 500 students
  • Collaborate with campus and community partners, including faculty, staff, parents, and others

A COVER LETTER IS REQUIRED FOR FULL CONSIDERATION
About Us;
When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we've been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation.
For more information, https://www.purdue.edu/drc/
What We're Looking For:
Education and Experience
Qualified candidates will need:

  • Bachelor's degree in education, student affairs, disability studies, counseling, or an equivalent field of study
  • Two (2) years of experience in higher education or professional disability-related experience
  • Demonstrated knowledge, training, or experience in State and Federal disability laws that apply to higher education
  • Excellent interpersonal skills: collaboration, conflict resolution, time management, reliability, adaptability, strong work ethic
  • Critical thinker and problem solver
  • Developed communication skills
  • High-level comfort with Microsoft Suite products and willingness to learn and engage with other computer applications

Nice to Have:
  • Master's degree in education, student affairs, disability studies, counseling, or an equivalent field of study
  • Experience working with students with disabilities in a higher education setting
  • Experience conducting the interactive process to determine access issues and appropriate adjustments in a higher education setting

Additional Information:
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period

Who We Are:
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Career Stream
Compensation Information:
Professional 2
Pay Band S065
Job Code #20003105
EOE
Purdue University is an EO/EA University


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