Digital Accessibility
Appalachian State University is implementing a campus-wide digital accessibility initiative to ensure all digital content, tools, and systems meet recognized accessibility standards (i.e. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA, in compliance with the university's Policy 909 and federal regulations). This effort promotes inclusive access for all users, including those with disabilities, and reflects our commitment to equity, usability, and student success. A cross-campus task force has led Phase 1 of this initiative, including the development of governance, training strategies, and evaluation tools to support ongoing implementation across departments.
For information regarding how to create accessible content, responsibilities, and training information, please visit accessibility.appstate.edu.
Disability Related Academic Adjustments & Accommodations
Disability laws require that institutions of higher education make adjustments/accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. These federal civil rights laws protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination and promote their full inclusion in programs, services, and activities.
The Office of Access & Opportunity: Disability Resources (ODR) the designated office at Appalachian State University for promoting opportunity, access, and civil rights based on a disability. ODR oversees access needs, applicable University resources/supports, and eligibility of appropriate accommodations (adjustments, auxiliary aids/services and reasonable modifications) based on disability for students Academic adjustments enable students to complete the established academic standards and course/program requirements, by providing equal access and opportunity for participation.
Faculty play an integral role in providing students with equal access. Faculty should direct questions to ODR regarding the provision of academic adjustments/accommodations, student rights to confidentiality and privacy, and resources available through ODR.
Faculty who have questions or concerns regarding a student’s approved accommodation should contact ODR at 828-262-3056 or odr@appstate.edu.
Pregnancy or Religious Academic Adjustments & Accommodations
Federal laws and regulations require non-discrimination on the basis of sex and religion. The Office of Access & Opportunity: Equal Opportunity (“EO”) is responsible for determining eligibility for requests based on religion and pregnancy and related conditions. EO considers adjustments on an individualized basis in consultation with faculty in order to prevent discrimination and ensure equal participation and opportunity to complete course requirements. Faculty are encouraged to reach out to EO if an initial request is made to them directly by contacting EO at 828-262-2144 or equalopportunity@appstate.edu.