Office of Accessible Education

What is a disability?

Disability occurs on a spectrum. An individual with a disability is defined as someone with a physical or mental impairment which impacts that person’s major life activities. There isn’t an exhaustive list of disabilities; if you are experiencing limitations because of an impairment, you should get in touch with our office. Sometimes disability-related accommodations are simple -- a power door, for example. Sometimes the accommodation(s) can be complex; our job is to work with you so that together we maximize your access.

Disabilities can be visible when someone uses a wheelchair, hearing aids, or cane. The majority of disabilities are invisible and include broad categories of learning disabilities, psychological, and chronic illnesses. Whether your disabilities are visible or invisible, temporary or chronic, the OAE wants to assist each individual find accommodations which work for them in a completely individualized process.