The University of Minnesota (UMN) is committed to fostering an accessible and inclusive environment for all members of our community. This web page is a guide to the Disability Resource Center for students participating in UMN Twin Cities courses through College in the Schools.

Disability Resource Center

The Disability Resource Center (DRC) works with students with documented disabilities to facilitate access through accommodations. Students with a 504 plan, an Individualized Education Program (IEP), or disability-related impacts, should work with the DRC to receive accommodations at the college level when taking a UMN course through College in the Schools (CIS). These accommodations and services are free and confidential.

Transition from High School to College

There are different laws governing accommodations in the K–12 and college settings. Whenever possible, the DRC considers accommodations in an IEP/504 plan. Some accommodations may need to be explored, waived, or modified to follow ADA requirements for college courses. It is important to understand the differences between high school and college expectations when determining reasonable accommodations.

How It Works

To engage in the DRC’s registration process, the student:

  1. Completes the student information form online
  2. Uploads documentation
  3. Meets (in person or via Zoom) with an access consultant to determine reasonable accommodations
  4. Receives an official accommodation letter
     

Accommodations are determined on an individualized, case-by-case basis. Examples of possible accommodations are test accommodations, assistive technology, sign-language interpreting or captioning support, and document conversion. 

After an Accommodation Letter Is Received

Both the student and instructor will receive the accommodation letter, which will be sent to their respective UMN email accounts. The instructor should work with the student to determine how accommodations can be implemented in the course, ensuring confidentiality throughout the process. If there are questions or concerns about accommodations, contact the student’s DRC access consultant.

If a student would like a parent, guardian, or another school representative to be involved in the accommodation process, they can request a Release of Information to grant the DRC permission to communicate their accommodations with others. 

Grievance Process

If after working with the DRC, a student believes that they are not receiving reasonable disability-related accommodations, they may follow the DRC’s grievance process.

Questions?

Whether you are a student, parent/guardian, instructor, or faculty, the DRC is happy to answer your general questions about accommodations and the registration process. The best way to reach them is by email at [email protected]. They also may be reached by phone at 612-626-1333 (V/TTY).

Students who are already registered and working with the DRC, may work directly with the Access Consultant listed on their accommodation letter.  

For details about policies related to accessibility, disability accommodations, and equal opportunity, visit the Office for Equity and Diversity website.