The mission of The Office of Student Disability Services (SDS) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), is to ensure that UMBC students with disabilities are afforded an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from the programs, services, and activities of the University through the provision of accommodations and reasonable modifications that result in equal access and full inclusion.
Student Disability Services’ goals are:
- To provide a welcoming, inclusive, and empowering environment for students with disabilities;
- To foster an institutional climate supportive of success for students with disabilities where students are recognized for their abilities and strengths;
- To coordinate accommodations that will allow students equal access and participation to all University courses, programs, and activities and
- To increase retention and graduation rates for students with disabilities.
Who does SDS serve, and what services are provided?
- Reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities are provided for all UMBC students “qualified” under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA and ADAA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 who request and are eligible for services.
- An individual with a disability is defined under the ADA as someone with a physical or mental impairment that impacts a significant life activity. Disabilities can be visible (such as someone who uses a wheelchair or someone using a cane to navigate campus who has low vision). However, the majority of disabilities are invisible and may include individuals with learning and cognitive disabilities, mental health diagnoses, and chronic health conditions.
- Whether your disabilities are visible or invisible, temporary or chronic, SDS will work with individuals to create accommodations that provide them access and participation in all UMBC offers. An interactive, individualized intake meeting with an SDS disability specialist to discuss access needs and campus resources is provided for all students seeking ADA/Section 504 accommodations due to disability challenges and access barriers in the higher education environment.
- Proctored exams outside the classroom, note-taking assistance, sign language interpreters, transcription, assistive and adaptive technology, and accessible campus housing are all accommodations coordinated by SDS to create access for students with disabilities at UMBC.
- Please navigate the SDS website’s “Getting Started” menu to begin service registration.
The first step to success is access.
Office of Student Disability Services (SDS)
Accessibility and Disability Services Department
UMBC Main Campus, 1000 Hilltop Circle
Math/Psychology Building, Room 212
Office Hours
Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
In-person and virtual appointments are available.
Appointments outside of office hours can also be arranged when necessary.