East Carolina University is committed to providing accessible technology and educational resources. Computer labs, learning platforms, web pages, multimedia content and applications should be accessible to everyone including individuals with disabilities. ECU works to comply with accessibility standards, to enable all users to fully participate. By establishing an accessibility and compliance program and keeping up to date with current trends in educational technology, learning platforms and web development, East Carolina University is addressing the needs of all students and ensuring access.
Who We Serve
DSS serves students with a wide range of disabilities. There is no exhaustive list of disabilities, but common categories can include: learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, chronic health conditions, neurological disabilities, mobility disabilities, and sensory disabilities. In some cases, we also support students with temporary conditions that impact access (e.g., mobility, notetaking). If a student believes their disability affects their ability to access any programs, services, or activities at ECU, we encourage them to reach out. If you're unsure whether a student qualifies for support, we're happy to answer questions and discuss options.
What We Do
Our mission is clear: we ensure that students with disabilities have access to all ECU programs, services, and activities. We collaborate with faculty and staff across campus to provide academic accommodations, as well as support for dining, housing, parking, transportation, and more. Our services are tailored to each student’s needs. Whether it’s extra time on exams, accessible classroom materials, or housing accommodations, we work to create a plan that supports students’ success at ECU.
How to Get Connected
The Accommodation Request Process is fully described on our website with additional resources about Documentation Guidelines. Importantly, accommodations from prior schools are not automatically transferred, so students who require accommodations must initiate the accommodation request process. These steps create the “interactive process” that allows DSS to ensure tailored resources are available when appropriate.
The process for requesting an accommodation involves four simple steps.
- Request Accommodations: Students must initiate the process by completing the Request Accommodation form on our website to share information about their disability and the accommodations they are seeking. Documentation may be uploaded with this form, but it may be submitted later in the process as well.
- Meet with DSS: Once we receive the form, our office will contact the student to schedule a meeting. This meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the student, their specific needs, and to address any questions or concerns.
- DSS Review: After the meeting, DSS staff will review the information provided by the student meeting, available documentation, consider their request, and determine reasonable accommodations.
- Communicate Decision: DSS will communicate the decision to the student and outline any next steps. If accommodations are supported, we provide guidance on how to implement the accommodations. If any requests are not supported, then we will provide a rationale and next steps available.
When to Reach Out
There is no strict deadline, but early requests help ensure a smoother process. Students can request support at any point during their time at ECU.
We strongly encourage incoming students to start the process before arriving on campus to ensure that accommodations are in place from day one. For academic accommodations, we recommend initiating the process before the fall semester begins. For housing and dining accommodations, it’s best to start as soon as possible to allow time for planning.
Why It’s Important
Connecting with DSS ensures that students with disabilities have the necessary resources in place for access to all the wonderful opportunities at ECU. For parents, understanding this process and encouraging your student to reach out early can help ensure a smooth transition to life as an ECU Pirate. We’re here to support students throughout their time at ECU, so don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.
Visit the DSS website for more information.
Disability Support Services:
Location: Mendenhall 109
Phone: 252-737-1016
E-mail: DSSdept@ecu.edu
Website: dss.ecu.edu
