Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations

Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations

Learning is an individual process in which everyone learns at different rates and in different ways. The Office of Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations ensures that qualified individuals with disabilities, approved through the ADA Committee, have an equal opportunity to participate in the university’s educational programs. In keeping with its mission of service, Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations office offers eligible students, who have a disability, reasonable accommodations to assist them with reaching their academic goals.

The office is structured to meet the guidelines of Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Office of Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations prides itself on empowering students to be self-advocates on the path of independence. Founded in 1986, Learning Differences (now, Office of Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations) has been committed to identifying and reducing physical, programmatic, and attitudinal barriers for students with disabilities and ensuring access to campus programs, services, and facilities.

The Office of Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations facilitates collaboration between students, faculty, and staff to ensure that the students’ needs for equitable access to academic programs are being met while upholding academic integrity. At Mercyhurst University, it is the student’s responsibility to disclose their disability to office staff in order to request accommodation(s). Any student who has a history of a diagnosed disability, suspects they may have a disability, or is seeking accommodation for academics, programs, or services at the University must contact the Learning Differences Coordinator.

All academic accommodations for students on both Erie and North East campuses are coordinated through the Office of Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations at the Erie campus.

 

Pathways to Academic Success for Students

The Office of Learning Differences and Academic Accommodations also offers a pre-college, fee-based program called Pathways to Academic Success for Students (PASS) designed to strengthen students’ academic skills and increase their confidence in their ability to achieve in college-level courses. Students live on campus for three weeks prior to Fall Freshman Welcome Week and enroll in a three-credit college course. The PASS program provides students with an opportunity to begin recognizing and coping with the added demands of college coursework.

For more information about the PASS program, please contact the Learning Differences Coordinator.

Degrees & Certificates
Course Descriptions