UMBC’s Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS) department, which includes the Office of Student Disability Services (SDS), is committed to ensuring equitable access, opportunity, and participation for all UMBC community members with disabilities. We advance equity by removing barriers, promoting inclusive practices, and supporting the implementation of universal design across campus. Through education, training, accommodation coordination, and advocacy, we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where all students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities can fully engage and thrive. We serve as a resource and partner to foster inclusive excellence and to ensure that the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act are upheld.
Departmental Vision:
The Office of Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS) envisions a UMBC community where individuals with disabilities are welcomed, valued, empowered, and respected as vital members of our richly diverse and inclusive UMBC culture. We strive to create a campus where equitable access, inclusive opportunities, and full participation are embedded in every aspect of university life. We seek to recognize, celebrate, and embrace the uniqueness of individuals with disabilities and their diverse experiences. Through fostering proactive implementation of universally designed programs, policies, and practices, we strive to be partners in a cultural change that uplifts, includes, and supports our disability community through meaningful access.
SDS goals:
- To provide a welcoming and inclusion-focused environment for students with disabilities who are navigating disability-based barriers;
- To foster an institutional climate supportive of success for students with disabilities, where all students are recognized for their abilities and strengths;
- To coordinate accommodations that will allow students equal access and participation in all University courses, programs, and activities;
- To increase retention and graduation rates for students with disabilities by creating accessible opportunities.
Who does SDS serve, and what services are provided?
- Reasonable accommodations to eliminate access barriers for students with disabilities are provided for all 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.
- Examples of accommodations coordinated by SDS to assist students with disabilities in reaching their goals may include: proctored exams outside of the classroom, note-taking assistance, sign language interpreters, transcription, lab assistance, adaptive and assistive technologies, classroom/housing/dining access solutions, and many more. Accommodations are identified through an interactive discussion with the individual to identify the environmental barriers and to determine appropriate modifications and adjustments that may be required for equitable participation.
- Although students with disabilities are not required to register with the Office of Student Disability Services (SDS), those who need accommodation adjustments in classes or housing (i.e., Residential Life) must be registered with the SDS office. (See “Getting Registered” Menu)
Departmental Guiding Principles,Themes, & Values:
Human Diversity and Disability Inclusion
Equity and Respect
Dignity and Anti-Stigma
Empowerment and Growth
Open Communication
Collaboration, Shared Responsibility, & Innovation
Customer Service and Responsiveness
Civility and Integrity
Community Standards and Excellence
ADA & Section 504 Compliance and Beyond