Welcome to the Students with Disabilities Affinity Group!
The resources in this section focus on career development resources for students with disabilities. Fresno State understands the unique challenges disabled students face and are committed to help.
The Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) offers academic support for students with verified physical, psychological, and learning disabilities. Available accommodations include assistive technology, alternative text formats, testing accommodations, reading and note-taking assistance, sign language interpreting, and campus transportation. For classroom accommodation requests, visit Library Suite 1202 or call 559.278.2811.
- Students must first meet the acceptance criteria of Fresno State.
- If completing another program on campus (i.e. Open University, Summer Arts, etc.) the student must meet the acceptance criteria of that program.
- Services for Students with Disabilities serves students with both permanent and temporary disabilities by providing access to educational programs and activities on campus.
- Students who used an IEP or 504 plan in high school may qualify.
- Students who used academic accommodations at a previous institution may qualify.
The ADA defines a person with a disability as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a person who has a history or record of such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as having an impairment.
SSD Serves students with a variety of disabilities. Some examples of disabilities are, but are not limited to:
- Physical Disabilities
- Learning Disabilities
- Psychological Disabilities
- Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities
- Brain Injury
- Visual Impairments
- Hearing Impairments
- Chronic Health Impairments
- Temporary injuries, surgeries, etc.
If you have concerns about something affecting your access to education or want to know if you qualify, schedule an informational meeting with an Access Specialist today!
Fresno State is dedicated to making the campus accessible and easy to navigate for students with disabilities. To assist with this, the university provides an accessibility campus map that highlights accessible routes, buildings, and facilities designed to support students with various mobility needs.
Student Housing
Student Housing works closely with the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) to provide accommodations for residents who require them. Any resident needing special accommodations must contact SSD and submit medical documentation related to their disability or accommodation needs within 14 days of submitting their housing application. Once the necessary documentation is received, an Access and Ability Specialist (AAS) will work with the student to issue a formal letter to Student Housing personnel, outlining the approved accommodations.
Note: Student Housing does not have elevators. If you or a family member require accommodations, please reach out to Fresno State Housing.
Gaining experience with a disability may be difficult for some, here are some resources dedicated to helping Fresno State students with disabilities succeed:
TRIO Student Support Services Disabilities (SSS-D) – TRIO SSSD at Fresno State is a college retention and undergraduate program designed to help students with disabilities develop the academic, professional, and personal skills necessary for successfully pursuing and completing a college degree.
Wayfinders – Wayfinders is a 2-year non-degree inclusive independent living certificate program for young adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Participants in Wayfinders enhance their independence by living in student apartments, enrolling in courses at Fresno State through Open University, and engaging actively in the community.
DOSAEM Mentor Directories – This project aims to enhance representation, visibility, and connection among our diverse identities, ultimately creating a supportive network for our students. Students can use these directories to find staff and faculty members who identify with those specific affinity groups, and connect with them for advice and guidance as needed.
Wayfinders – Wayfinders is a 2-year non-degree inclusive independent living certificate program for young adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Participants in Wayfinders are participating in work experience internships, enrolling in courses at Fresno State through Open University, and engaging actively in the community year-round.
Career Development Center (CDC) – The CDC is available to help all students with any career-related questions they might have. You can schedule a one-on-one appointment with a career advisor to discuss anything from major exploration, job outlook, resume and cover letters, interviewing, and more. The CDC also hosts a number of events throughout the year, such as the Fall and Spring Career Fairs. Contact us by email at careers@csufresno.edu or by phone at 559.278.2381 to schedule an appointment.
Already have a job and looking for additional support? Fresno State offers Employee Accommodation Services, ensuring equal access and opportunity by providing reasonable accommodations to employees and applicants with disabilities, in line with its commitment to creating a supportive work environment.
University Programs and Services
- Services for Students with Disabilities
- Employee Accommodation Services
- TRIO Student Support Services Disabilities (SSS-D)
- Accessibility Campus Map
Header Photo by ThisisEngineering on Unsplash
