General Information
In order to receive services, students are required to complete a Service Agreement and/or Proctoring form each semester. Counselors are available to assist you with this at your convenience either by appointment or during walk-in hours.
The Student Services provides a range of accommodations based on the functional limitations of the student's disability including reader, alternate format and notetaker services. Exam proctoring as well as assistive technology assessment and training are available. Counselors with specialties in learning disabilities, mental health disabilities and general disabilities, provide academic, disability management and personal advisement. In addition, students may choose to participate in academic performance workshops, mentoring services or disabilities support groups. Other support services include: access to adaptive educational equipment, priority registration assistance, and special parking assistance.
Once a student has submitted documentation and is determined to be eligible to receive services, the student must meet with a counselor who will make decisions about accommodations. During that meeting students are encouraged to express their preferences about accommodations. The final decision however, will be based upon the diagnosis and functional limitations contained in the documentation. Some common accommodations that may be approved are:
- Extended time to take exams
- A reader and/or scribe to assist with exams
- Note taking services
- Alternate formats for print material
- Tape recording of classes
- Specialized classroom furniture
- Assistive technology
- The use of a calculator during exams
Confidentiality
The University is in compliance with the Federal Educational Right to Privacy Act (FERPA) ensuring the confidentiality of all student records. In addition, both the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act require that confidentiality be maintained. With written permission from the student, counselors from Students with Disabilities Resources may discuss accommodations that have been approved for the student with faculty, but may not discuss the specifics of the diagnosis, unless requested to do so by the student.
Appeals
It is important to remember that all accommodations must be supported by the submitted documentation. Decisions about accommodations may be appealed by contacting Dr. Mary Ann Cummins Prager, Director, at (818) 677-2684. Cal State Northridge also has a formal grievance process in place for students who believe there has been a violation of the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students may seek assistance from the Director of Equity and Diversity, Ms. Jo Ann Fielder at (818) 677-2077 or at joann.fielder@csun.edu.