Each individual has a basic right to an education in accordance with his or her aspirations, talents, and skills. Listed below are some of the common questions:

What is a Disability?

“Disability” means, with respect to an individual,

  • a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of that individual
  • a record of such impairment; or
  • being regarded as having such an impairment

What are some of the accommodations that are available?

Accommodations are individualized and vary depending on the disability, the documentation and interactive process. Some examples of accommodations include:

Academic Accommodations

  • Record classroom lecture
  • Electronic books
  • Sign language interpreter
  • Preferential seating
  • Note taker/Carbonless Notebook
  • Enlarged print
  • Braille
  • Adaptive computer equipment

Test Accommodations

  • Extended time on tests
  • Quiet testing
  • Test writer
  • Test reader software

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible, the disabling condition(s) must obstruct participation in otherwise available academic or extracurricular activities without accommodation(s). Students must supply the Academic Success Center Accommodations Office with documentation describing the nature of and functional limitations caused by the disability. The student must complete all steps of the application process.

What are reasonable accommodations?

“Reasonable accommodations” means that modifications or adjustments will be made to enable a qualified student with a disability an equal opportunity to achieve success. Reasonable accommodations must be indicated in the official documentation.

I am applying for Placement Test accommodations and do not know how to log in to myRichland. What do I do?

You should receive a Student ID number at the time of application to Richland. If you have not yet registered for classes and do not have instructions to activate your account on myRichland, you can contact Student Success at 875-7211 ext 6267 or the Accommodations Office for assistance.

Can I bring my parent/guardian or someone else to the accommodations appointment?

Yes, you may bring someone with you if you choose. Please let the Accommodations Office know in advance so arrangements can be made if needed. Keep in mind that questions will be directed to the student as we are exploring the student perspective; however, there is generally time for questions and comments.

What kinds of questions will be asked at the accommodations appointment?

You may be asked about your educational goals, learning styles and preferences, study skills and habits, any accommodations you have had in the past, what works best for you, how your disability impacts learning and studying, types of resources and technology you are familiar with, or other similar questions.

I am under 18. Do I need to bring a parent/guardian to the accommodations appointment?

Yes, if you are under 18 at the time of the appointment, you will need to bring a parent or guardian to the appointment. Please let the Accommodations Office know in advance so that arrangements can be made.

What are the student’s responsibilities?

  • Sign into myRichland and fill out an Accommodations Application
  • Provide documentation to the Academic Success Center Accommodations Office
  • Engage in an interactive meeting to determine appropriate accommodations
  • Communicate directly with your instructors
  • Use accommodations
  • Keep Academic Success Center Accommodation’s Office informed of progress
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress

What are Richland Community College’s responsibilities?

  • Arrange for reasonable accommodations based on documentation provided
  • Monitor the effectiveness of accommodations
  • Maintain confidentiality of student information

Are there any programs or activities specifically for students with disabilities?

  • Richland Community College is proud to hold the charter for the Alpha Delta Chapter of Delta Alpha Pi, an international honor society for students with disabilities. Eligible students have completed at least 24 credit hours and have achieved a 3.10 or higher cumulative GPA
  • College and Career Competencies is a program for students with disabilities transitioning from high school to Richland, focusing on self-advocacy and study skills. Please email accom@richland.edu to learn more about this program

What other resources are available through the Academic Success Center?

  • All Richland students are encouraged to use tutoring if needed
  • Computers are available for students to practice math, reading, comprehension, and writing
  • The Academic Success Center offers workshops and resources to improve study skills
  • The Read&Write Literacy Tool is free for all students.  Learn more about the Read&Write Literacy Tool.