Master of Disability Policy and Practice (2 years)

On successful completion of the course, graduates will be able to:

1. critically discuss and evaluate current theory and research in selected areas of disability policy and practice
2. demonstrate professional knowledge around a range of conceptual disability perspectives
3. promote the physical and emotional well-being of people living with disability
4. apply positive disability perspectives to professional practice in an area of specialised knowledge
5. use specialised knowledge to facilitate community participation of people living with disability
6. apply research, problem solving and/or evaluation skills to professional practice
7. develop a detailed understanding of the professional practice of disability studies as it relates to diagnosis, behavioural intervention, social and community education and employment
8. develop an understanding of, and competency in, research as it applies to the disability field
9. develop skills in the evaluation of disability and allied rehabilitation programs
10. contribute to the informed construction of disability policy, whether local, national or global.

Become an effective and respected professional in disability. The program aims to broaden the professional opportunities for graduates within an evolving policy and practice context. You will become NDIS aware and develop disability specific knowledge to assist people living with disabilities to participate in all aspects of their everyday life. This could include supporting people with disabilities in their educational, economic, recreational and social participation, and to be recognised as valued members of their local communities.

It is 2 years in length on a full-time basis and can also be undertaken part-time.

Recommended study pattern

Students complete one of two pathways in the course. The coursework pathway requires students to complete four core (compulsory) topics including a research project and practicum topic and 12 option topics chosen from a range of option topics available.

The Coursework with Research Project or Dissertation pathway requires students to complete 5-6 core (compulsory) topics including either a Research Coursework Project or Dissertation, practicum topic and up to ten option topics chosen from a range of option topics available.

These topics aim to provide students with the opportunity to develop expertise required of disability and allied health professions enabling work in a range of Government and non-government organisations in health, education and human service settings.

Award requirements

To complete the requirements of the Master of Disability Policy and Practice, students must successfully complete one of two pathways in the course. The coursework pathway requires students to complete four core (compulsory) topics including a research project and practicum topic and 12 option topics chosen from a range of option topics available.

The Coursework with Research Project or Dissertation pathway requires students to complete 5-6 core (compulsory) topics including either a Research Coursework Project or Dissertation, practicum topic and up to ten option topics chosen from a range of option topics available.

Exit points

Given the related pathways of coursework in Disability Studies, students enrolled in the Master of Disability Policy and Practice may be eligible, after completing the appropriate units of study, to exit with the Graduate Certificate in Disability Studies.

Flinders University is a globally-focused, locally-engaged institution with a reputation for excellence in teaching, learning and research. They offer world‐class education that develops the critical and creative thinking skills to support a student’s success. Their courses offered through Open Universities Australia span business, education and law. They are designed with flexibility in mind, while delivering the advanced qualifications to take careers to the next step.

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Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree of three or more years duration in a disability-related discipline.

Flinders University conducts an English Language proficiency check on applications submitted for consideration to its courses. 
This will be met in a number of ways, including if the applicants: 

• first language is English (i.e. citizenship is held for a country where English is the official language)
• completed secondary schooling in Australia
• completed prior study in English (e.g. a Certificate IV or higher from a recognised Australian training institution)
• completed one semester of full-time equivalent tertiary study at a higher education institution 
• completed a recognised Foundation Studies or bridging program 
• performance in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test  (STAT) meets the University's admissions requirements 
• registered with an Australian professional registration body relevant to the applicant's proposed course (e.g. applicant holds current registration as a Registered Nurse, General Practitioner, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker and such in Australia)
• achieved a score within an international English language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge CAE that meets the minimum proficiency for the university
• completed an approved English language course from a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) Provider

In some instances, applicants may be asked to provide evidence they meet the requirements if the information required is not available in their application. 

Credit transfer may be granted, on application, for prior study completed in a relevant honours, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master degree; accredited professional development; or relevant work experience.

Applications for credit transfer are assessed on a case by case basis according to Flinders University policies. Students must be made an offer for entry into a degree before lodging their completed credit transfer application, along with all necessary documentation for formal assessment. More information is available at www.flinders.edu.au/credit

Students will undertake professional experience placement as part of the course. For more information visit https://students.flinders.edu.au/my-course/placements/compliance