University Procedures for Appeals

Appeals Regarding Modifications of Courses, General Education or Major/Minor Requirements

A student may appeal a decision made by a member of the faculty on the grounds that

  • the decision made does not represent a reasonable accommodation of his/her disability, and/or
  • that the disability, in the absence of a modification or reasonable substitution in the course, courses, or program of study in question, limits his/her ability to be accurately evaluated and/or fully participate in the academic program.

The decision of a faculty member may be appealed to the department chairperson. The decision of a department chairperson or program coordinator may be appealed to the appropriate school dean. The decision of the school dean may be appealed to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The decision of the vice president is final.

The student shall initiate the appeal by submitting a letter in writing to the department chairperson, school dean or vice president with a copy to the Disability Resources Coordinator. The letter should state the relief the student is seeking and the reason why the student is unsatisfied with the decision being appealed. Copies of prior appeal decisions and documentation shall be included.

Following a review of the material and interviews with any or all of the parties involved, the chairperson, dean or vice president will meet with the student. The student has the right to have an advocate present at the meeting. The student will receive a decision in writing.

University Appeals Procedures Regarding Modifications to General Services, Institutional Policies and Practices, or the Provision of Auxiliary Aids

If the requested modification involves general services, policies or practices (including, but not limited to housing, student affairs, financial aid, athletics, and institutionally sponsored student organizations), or auxiliary aids, and the student and responsible office/organizational representative cannot agree on appropriate modifications, the student should contact the Disability Resources Coordinator to assist in establishing reasonable modifications.

The coordinator or designee will review the concerns of both parties in light of the student's documented needs and the purpose of the service, policy or practice, or auxiliary aid in question. Based on this evaluation, the Coordinator or designee will provide an access plan.

If either party disagrees with the access plan, he/she may file an appeal in writing to the Vice President of Academic Affairs or the Vice President of Student Affairs. The decision of the vice president is final. During the appeals process the student is entitled to receive the modifications established in the access plan.

Last Modified: February 14, 2011