School for Global Inclusion and Social Development

University of Massachusetts Boston's School for Global Inclusion and Social Development (SGISD) uses a transdisciplinary approach that allows us to acknowledge and examine the intersectional nature of this commitment across different areas of study, populations, communities, and research and practice.

Our goal is for students committed to global inclusion and social development to apply their experiences and knowledge to areas of policy and practice, using equity- and justice-oriented inclusive lens. Their efforts and leadership will create a more socially cohesive and sustainable society, supporting the dignity, human rights, and responsibilities of all its members. 

The GISD MA program examines global, national, and local issues related to inclusion and social development. Students seek solutions to complex challenges in today’s rapidly changing society, such as health disparities, environmental justice, community development, participatory decision-making, and economic inequality, as well as discrimination based on gender, disability, sexual orientation, age, race, ethnicity, and economic status. 

Our Ph.D. program examines how to deepen inclusion and social development, from the local to the global level. For their doctoral degrees, our students conduct rigorous original research around the world and in the United States, adding to existing knowledge in meaningful ways so as to affect the lives of marginalized populations and make meaningful policy change. 

Students in SGISD examine key issues that lead to the political, economic, and social inclusion of individuals and groups of people worldwide in their societies. In response to growing national and international interest in human rights education, we are offering a human rights certificate through SGISD.

Rehabilitation counselors support people with barriers to employment to find fulfilling work that matches their interests and skills. Rehab counselors work with clients who have disabilities, criminal histories, and substance abuse histories. The goal is for each person to discover their strengths, overcome their challenges, and engage in their personal and professional community. We are proud to be ranked #1 in New England among rehabilitation counseling programs by U.S. News and World Report.

Our Vision Studies program trains professionals to support people with blindness and low vision to achieve success. Our graduates work in classrooms that include students with visual impairments, and teach people with visual impairment to safely navigate their environment. They also work with people who are blind or have low vision to gain and retain fulfilling employment and to live independently.