Disability and Disability Studies

This guide provides resources on the topic of disability and the interdisciplinary field of disability studies.

You can currently find information about:

• Data and Statistics
• Disability Studies
• Resources at University of Michigan
• U.S. Government Resources on Disability
• External Resources on Disability

Many people who work and study at the University of Michigan have disabilities. If you are navigating access and accommodations at the University of Michigan for yourself, a colleague, a student, or anyone, please see the following resources.

Services for Students with Disabilities: SSD is the office on campus that supports students with disabilities. SSD can process medical information and keep it private, determine reasonable accommodations, and coordinate academic accommodations for students. SSD also advises instructors on accessible practices and supports students with academic coaching, study space, and more.

Rackham Graduate School, Students with Disabilities: Rackham has information for graduate students with disabilities on its website. The site includes resources on academic accommodations and work accommodations, and a list administrative designees (support staff who can help navigate access and accommodations) for each school or college.

Graduate Employees Organization, Disability Accommodations and Resources: GEO has comprehensive resources for members with disabilities on its website, including a flowchart for managing accommodations, a grievance procedure, and links to further resources.

Equity, Civil Rights, and Title IX Office: ECRT oversees the protection of people's civil rights at the University of Michigan, including the rights of disabled people to employment and to university services, programs, and activities that are readily accessible and free of disability discrimination. ECRT can be contacted by any individual at the university, and their website includes resources related to disability access and accommodations. 

Medical Ergonomics: The Medical Ergonomics office can support employees with disabilities or conditions affecting their ability to work. Occupational therapists can process medical information and keep it private, and can identify strategies, equipment, or accommodations that are needed. Ergonomics Awareness is a related program that provides best practices for comfort at work for all employees.

Change in Ability to Work: Employees who have experienced a change in ability to work (due to illness, injury, disability, or other cause) can find confidential resources for navigating access, accommodations, and other needs at this site.

Library Accessibility: The University of Michigan Library has information about accessibility of Library spaces and collections. If you have a disability that prevents you from reading or using Library items in their current format, we can work to get you an accessible copy.