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Disability Studies Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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$55

How much do disability studies jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for disability studies in Virginia is $25.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.30 and $28.99 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.
More about Disability Studies jobs

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Disability Studies jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Disability Studies job openings:

Disability Studies jobs near you
Infographic showing various Disability Studies job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,789 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Intern (Masters and PhD Students), National Center for Systemic Improvement

American Institutes for Research

Washington, VA • On-site, Remote

$30/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Join AIR as a part-time Researcher Intern to support a project for the National Center for Systemic Improvement (NCSI). The NCSI supports state education agencies (SEAs) to best use their general supervision and professional development systems to establish and meet high expectations for every student with a disability by providing universal, targeted, and intensive technical assistance.
This internship is designed for graduate students interested in special education leadership, state education agency work, systems-level improvement, and evidence-based practices that improve outcomes for children and youth with disabilities. This staff person will contribute to ongoing projects, participate in structured professional learning and mentorship, and complete a culminating project aligned to NCSI priorities.
This part-time internship is expected to begin in October 2026 and conclude in May 2027. Interns must be available to work part-time during standard business hours on weekdays to support collaboration with project staff, participate in meetings, and engage in professional learning activities. This position is not intended for work performed exclusively during evenings or outside normal business hours.
Candidates hired for the position may work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of our U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.
About AIR:
Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.
Responsibilities:
The responsibilities for the position include:
  • Support projects related to the education of students with disabilities, with emphasis on state education agencies and special education systems-level work.
  • Assist with reviewing, synthesizing, and organizing research, policy, guidance, and other resources relevant to special education leadership and improvement efforts.
  • Contribute to the development of tools, materials, presentations, briefs, and other products for internal and external audiences.
  • Participate in team meetings, professional learning opportunities, and mentorship activities with leaders in special education and related fields.
  • Help analyze problems of practice and identify evidence-based strategies that support improved services, systems, and outcomes for children and youth with disabilities.
  • Collaborate with project staff to complete assigned tasks, monitor timelines, and communicate progress on internship activities.
  • Complete a culminating project aligned with the priorities of NCSI.
  • Perform other related duties in support of learning goals and organizational needs.

Qualifications:
Successful candidates will demonstrate the following requirements through their educational professional, personal, and volunteer experiences:
  • Must currently enrolled in a masters or doctoral program in special education, educational leadership, public policy, disability studies, education policy, or a closely related field focused on the education and development of students with disabilities.
  • Demonstrated interest in leadership, policy, systems improvement, or state-level work related to special education.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize information clearly for different audiences.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid or remote professional environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Experience with literature reviews, policy analysis, data-informed decision-making, or program support.
  • Commitment to improving outcomes for students with disabilities, their families, and the systems that serve them.

Hourly pay is $30.00 for doctoral students and $25.00 for master's students. Rates are fixed and not negotiable.
Disclosures: Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.
American Institutes for Research is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law, including, but not limited to, actual or perceived race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braid, locks, and twists), creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition (e.g., cancer), sex, gender, gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, civil union status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, genetic information, or military or veteran status. AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks. AIR maintains a drug-free work environment.
ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE: If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please send an email to Taliba Boone at tboone@air.org or call 202.403.5000.
Fraudulent Job Scams Warning & Disclaimer: AIR is aware of individuals falsely presenting themselves as AIR representatives. Fraudulent job scams seek to extract sensitive information or money from victims. To protect yourself, please be aware that AIR recruitment will only email you from an "@air.org" domain. Please take extra caution while examining the email address, for example jdoe@air.org is correct and jdoe@aircareers.org is not a legitimate AIR email address. If you are unsure of the legitimacy of a communication you have received, please reach out to recruitment@air.org. If you see a job scam, or lose money to one, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. You can also report it to your state attorney general. Find out more about how to avoid scams atftc.gov/scams.
#LI-AS1 #LI-REMOTE
AIR's Total Rewards Program, is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers the anticipated annual salary as listed. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competitive markets. Please note this is the annual salary range for candidates that are based in the United States.
Anticipated Hourly Rate Range
$25-$30 USD

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