Students with Disabilities

SCS's programs and activities, like all those at NU, are meant to be accessible to all of its students, including those with mobility hardships or other disabilities. The information below is adapted from the Faculty Guide in Assisting Students with Disabilities produced by the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD), which can supply the complete document upon request. It includes information about the student's responsibilities, about various disabilities, and about reasonable accommodations.

If an instructor has concerns about a disabled student in class, please contact the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities at (847) 467-5530.

Due to the very personal and private nature of some disabilities, it may be extremely difficult for some students to identify themselves as having a disability. Often, students struggle through classes and may never identify for fear of discrimination. Therefore, it is important to create an atmosphere where students feel comfortable about coming forward to discuss any special needs. An instructor can demonstrate openness and willingness to help students by including on the syllabus a statement that encourages students to make an appointment if they need course adaptations or accommodations, if they have emergency medical information of which SCS should be aware, or if they need special assistance during an emergency evacuation. It would also be helpful to refer such students to the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities if the student has not already registered there.

Instructors who have concerns about the appropriateness of a proposed accommodation should discuss them with SSD. For more information, visit http://www.northwestern.edu/disability/.

Please contact SSD at 467-5530 or ssd@northwestern.edu with specific questions.