How Are the Disabled Accommodated in Nursing Schools?

By law, most colleges are required to make reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. These laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, apply to nursing schools and nursing students, as well.

Reasonable Accommodations

There are no laws that dictate what accommodations will be considered reasonable. It is decided on a case-by-case basis.

Physical Disabilities

Nursing schools are required to have classrooms that are physically accessible to disabled students. For instance, schools must have elevators for students that are unable to climb stairs.

Learning Disabilities

Nursing students with learning disabilities might be given extra time on tests. They might be permitted to tape classes if they have trouble taking notes. Students can request any other accommodations they need.

Mental Illnesses

Some nursing schools provide counseling services for students suffering from depression or other mental illnesses, but schools are not required to provide such services. All schools should allow students time to attend counseling sessions if needed, however.

Requesting Accommodations

If you need any special accommodations in nursing school, you must notify the appropriate department. The school may require you to prove you are disabled and require the requested accommodations.

References

• LD Online: College Students and Disability Law
• Americans with Disabilities Act
• Dept. of Health and Human Services: Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Resources

• Office for Civil Rights: Students with Disabilities