A Priority Mission

Since 1968, UW-Whitewater has provided dedicated services to address accessibility and provide accommodations related to facilities, transportation, programs, and more. Through unique features including universal design across campus, nationally recognized wheelchair basketball teams, a summer transition program, and a supportive campus culture, students with disabilities find a welcoming, inclusive community at this university in southwest Wisconsin. Read more about what makes UW-Whitewater a leader in its commitment to disability services below:

Universal Design

Universal design is never an afterthought or special consideration at UW-Whitewater. In fact, it stands out as one of the few institutions willing to employ universal design in all campus buildings. The university has a policy in place to ensure that universal design is a standard for all new construction or remodeling on the campus. This inclusive approach is felt across the student body as student with disabilities do not face barriers to interacting with the rest of the student body within living arrangements, clubs and organizations, sports, or classes.

Wheelchair basketball

UW-Whitewater is home to men's and women's intercollegiate national championship wheelchair basketball teams. The athletes take their talent to the community through opportunities including summer camps for children with mobility impairments, and a disability awareness program that has been presented throughout the Midwest and is popular with local school districts and educational programming events.

Recruitment

UW-Whitewater engages in regional and national recruitment of prospective students with disabilities, demonstrating a unique partnership with Admissions officers to highlight targeted services available to help students be successful academically and to find a community where they feel a sense of belonging.

Summer Transition Program

Planning for the transition from high school to college is an exciting and somewhat confusing time. To help families and students, the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) offers the Summer Transition Program, a rigorous four-week transition program for incoming freshmen with disabilities. The intent of this program is to help students make a positive transition from high school to university life while introducing and familiarizing them to a typical college course load. Students are enrolled in two, 3-credit courses and are encouraged to devote a significant amount of time to complete all tasks assigned by class instructors. Students have opportunities to access support and assistance from CSD staff and graduate students to assist them with the learning process. A variety of opportunities are available for students to develop relationships with campus and community resources. Transition Mentors help students during the move-in process and through other activities aimed at promoting their academic and social adjustment to college life.