ADA For Students
Students' Frequently Asked Questions
Creighton and Disability Accommodation
Q. What is the Americans with Disability Act (ADA)?
A. The ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, State and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications. It also applies to the United States Congress.
Q. What constitutes a disability and how is it documented?
A. The ADA defines a disability as (I) a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of an individual's major life activities; (II) a record of such impairment; or (III) being regarded as having such an impairment.
Q. Who should I contact if I need an accommodation?
A. Contact the Office of Student Accessibility Services. You will need to to complete a written needs assessment and provide documentation of your disability. Once approved, reasonable accommodations will be provided as soon as possible.
Q. What is a "reasonable accommodation"?
A. Creighton University is required to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities. Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis. Creighton University will engage in an interactive communication process with you to determine the best solution for your needs. The nature of the disability and the type of activities you will be engaged in are two of the many factors that are considered in determining a reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodation may include, but is not limited to:
- Making existing facilities readily accessible to, and usable by, persons with disabilities.
- Acquiring or modifying equipment or devices, adjusting or modifying examinations, training materials, or policies, and providing qualified readers or interpreters.
Q. Why would my request for an accommodation be denied?
A. If the necessary changes would pose an "undue hardship" on Creighton University, the University is permitted to refuse a request for an accommodation. Undue hardship is defined as an action requiring significant difficulty or expense when considered in light of factors such as an organization's size, financial resources, and the nature and structure of its operation.
An organization is not required to lower quality or production standards to make an accommodation; nor is an organization obligated to provide personal use items such as glasses or hearing aids.
