People with disabilities are among the most vulnerable and excluded social groups in all human societies, even the most developed ones. Recent research continues to link unemployment, poverty and reduced social, cultural and political participation with disability. Prejudice, discrimination, paternalism and stigma are still very present in all communities, penalising the realisation of human and citizenship rights by people with disabilities. The most recent progress in the field of disability has been made through a human rights approach, not only in terms of the design of public policies, programmes, projects and social responses, but also in terms of their implementation and management.

The master's degree in "Disability Studies and Human Rights" aims to prepare and train technical professionals in the sector, graduates who want to become professionals in the field and leaders of public bodies, local authorities and social solidarity institutions, for the transition to a model centered on promoting the participation and human rights of people with disabilities.

Iscte is therefore committed to developing a high-level training programme that equips students with the knowledge, competences and skills to make a difference in this area of intervention.

The master's programme in "Disability Studies and Human Rights" grants equivalence to the first curricular year to students who have completed the postgraduate course and wish to move directly into the second year of the master's programme. In this case, students are exempt from paying the tuition fee for the first academic year of the master's programme.

Disabled students who are eligible for scholarships to attend higher education under Order no. 8584/2017 of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education may, if they wish, submit their application to Iscte's services.