Student thrive with the right accommodations!
The Disability Services Center (DSC) is committed to ensuring equal access to all aspects of university life for students with disabilities. In partnership with faculty, staff, and administrators, DSC works to provide reasonable accommodations that allow qualified students to fully participate in Gallaudet University’s academic, residential, social, cultural, and co-curricular programs.
DSC coordinates disability-related accommodations, determines eligibility for services through an interactive process, and supports students in accessing the resources they need to achieve their educational goals. In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), accommodations are provided on an individualized basis.
Our Approach
We recognize disability as a natural aspect of human diversity and believe that every student deserves equitable access to the Gallaudet experience. Our work is guided by the following principles:
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Disability is diversity. Disability is an important dimension of human diversity and inclusion.
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Access should not be limited by systemic barriers. We acknowledge that historical and ongoing inequities can affect a student’s ability to obtain disability documentation. Documentation is one source of information, but it is not the only one we consider.
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Students are experts on their own experiences. We use an individualized, interactive process that considers each student’s lived experience when determining appropriate accommodations.
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Confidentiality is essential. Disability-related information is kept confidential and shared only with those responsible for implementing approved accommodations, and only when necessary.
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Universal access benefits everyone. We advocate for inclusive practices and universal design to reduce barriers across campus.
Our Commitment
DSC is committed to:
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Providing equitable access to University programs, services, and opportunities.
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Supporting student self-advocacy and independence while offering guidance throughout the accommodation process.
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Working collaboratively with students to review and adjust accommodations as needs change.
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Promoting disability awareness, inclusion, and accessibility throughout the University community.
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Fostering a welcoming, affirming environment that values the diverse identities and experiences of all students.
Students do not need to disclose disability-related information to faculty or staff outside of DSC in order to receive accommodations. Our office communicates only the information necessary to implement approved accommodations.
Accessibility and Inclusion
In addition to coordinating accommodations, DSC serves as a resource for faculty, staff, and students seeking guidance on accessibility, disability inclusion, universal design, disability advocacy, and disability-related concerns or discrimination. DSC also provides accommodations to alumni and visitors who are attending large events such as Homecoming and Commencement.
Getting Started
If you are experiencing academic or other barriers related to a disability, DSC encourages you to contact us to discuss your needs and explore reasonable accommodations. We are committed to working with every student to identify appropriate solutions and ensure meaningful access to all aspects of the Gallaudet experience.
Related Student Resources
FAQs
Student Questions
Students may disclose a disability and request accommodations at any point during their academic career at Gallaudet. To be considered for disability-related accommodations, students need to follow these steps:
- Complete an “Applications for Services” form (eSign online, see “Forms” in the Quick Links).
- Contact the Disability Services Center (DSC) to schedule an initial appointment
During the initial appointment, students meet with an DSC counselor to discuss the accommodations for which they were approved. The student will have a chance to ask any questions about their documentation and why they were approved or denied for any specific accommodations.
Students may request that their documentation be reconsidered if they were denied a specific accommodation, or they may request additional accommodations if they have new or updated documentation.
Top Questions
As soon as possible. Although students may request accommodations at any time, students needing services should contact the Disability Services Center (DSC) as early as possible. This provides enough time to review the students’ requests and arrange appropriate accommodations. Some accommodations, such as interpreters, may take time to arrange. Students should not wait until after completing a course or receiving a low grade to request accommodations and then expect the grade to be changed, or to be able to retake the course.
A disability, as defined under Title III of the “Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990” (ADA) as amended by the “ADA Amendments Act of 2008”, and Section 504 of the “Rehabilitation Act of 1973”, is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Disabilities interfere significantly with learning or with access to, or participation in, classes and campus activities. Examples include but are not limited to:
- physical disabilities, such as those affecting mobility
- learning disabilities (LD)
- traumatic brain injuries
- attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- low vision or blindness
- chronic health conditions; chronic pain
- psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder
- deafness*
* Gallaudet University is a signing community, where American Sign Language (ASL) is the common language for teaching classes and other communications on campus. OSWD does accommodate deaf students when additional disabilities are present or special consideration is warranted; deaf students needing ASL accommodations will be referred by the Disability Services Center (DSC).
Contact
- Disability Services Center
- Peet Hall | Basement Lobby
- dsc@gallaudet.edu
- (202) 448 - 7259
- (202) 250 - 2059
