Bachelor of Disability Studies and Special Education

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Disability Studies and Special Education at Africa Renewal University prepares students to become educators, advocates, and leaders who serve individuals with disabilities with compassion, professionalism, and faith.

This program blends social justice, inclusive education, and Christian values to equip graduates with the tools to create meaningful change. Students gain the practical and theoretical skills to teach, support, and empower persons with disabilities—working across schools, organizations, ministries, and government systems.

Why Study This Program at AfRU

  • Rooted in both social justice and a Christian worldview
  • Prepares graduates for high-impact roles in education, advocacy, and policy
  • Emphasizes inclusive education across primary, secondary, and adult settings
  • Taught by committed educators and disability ministry practitioners
  • Offers hands-on experience through fieldwork, internships, and mentorship

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the DSSE program will be able to:

  • Design and deliver inclusive education for learners with disabilities
  • Develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs)
  • Apply scaffolding and adaptive teaching strategies
  • Promote positive behavior and social integration in diverse settings

Provide specialized support for learners with autism, learning disabilities, and physical impairments

Course Structure

Year 1
  • Introduction to Disability Studies
  • Foundations of Inclusive Education
  • Psychology of Learning
  • Introduction to Special Needs Categories
  • Old & New Testament Survey
  • Academic Writing and Communication
  • Individualized Education Planning
  • Instructional Strategies for Special Needs
  • Assistive Technologies in Education
  • Classroom & Behavior Management
  • Research Methods
  • Child Development and Social Work
  • Disability Rights and Advocacy
  • Counseling & Family Engagement
  • Internship I & II
  • Final Year Project
  • Christian Ethics and Disability Ministry

Entry Requirements

Direct Entry

  • Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) with at least 5 passes
  • Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) with 2 principal passes
  • Kenya 8-4-4 system: C+ or Higher Education Certificate equivalent

Diploma Entry

  • Diploma in Community-Based Rehabilitation, Special Needs Education, Sign Language, Social Work, Physiotherapy, or related field

Mature Age Entry

  • Minimum 50% pass in a certified Mature Age Entry Exam recognized by NCHE

International Applicants

  • A high school certificate that qualifies for university admission in the home country
  • May require document equivalency verification
  • Proof of English proficiency if education was not in English
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Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program can pursue careers such as:

  • Special Needs Education Teacher
  • Disability Advocate
  • Sign Language Interpreter
  • Social Worker
  • Counselor
  • Public Policy Analyst for PWDs
  • Government or NGO Officer for Disability Affairs
  • Ministry Leader for Disability Outreach
  • Behavioral Support Specialist
  • Recreation & Sports Inclusion Coach

Raising Christ-centered leaders for Africa and beyond.
At Africa Renewal University, we combine academic excellence with spiritual growth to prepare students for impactful, purpose-driven lives.

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Contacts

Mityana Rd. Buloba Trade Centre, Kampala, Uganda

Tel:

  • +256 200927735
  • +256 200927736
  • +256 701598347


E-mail: info@afru.ac.ug

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