Affiliating with the Disability Resource Center (DRC)
At the University of Northern Colorado, we recognize disability as a natural part
of diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible environment
for all students. This includes individuals with ADHD, learning disabilities, autism,
physical and sensory disabilities, mental health and chronic health conditions, and
temporary disabilities, among others.
The DRC offers two pathways to affiliate with our office — Blue, Accelerated Affiliation and Gold, Standard Affiliation — so students can choose the process that best fits their needs.
Blue, Accelerated Affiliation (No Meeting Required)
This option may be appropriate if:
- You know the specific accommodations you’re requesting
- You have documentation that supports those accommodations
- You have previous experience with accommodations (e.g., from high school, another
college, etc.)
In this pathway, communication typically occurs via email, and no consultation meeting is required. The Accelerated Affiliation is limited to specific accommodations listed on our website and is not for students in graduate or professional programs, for students not currently enrolled in classes, or those seeking Housing/Dining/Emotional Support Animal accommodations.
Choosing Accelerated Affiliation does not lock you into those accommodations indefinitely. If your access needs shift over time, you can always reach out to your assigned Access Coordinator to schedule a consultation and explore additional supports.
Blue, Accelerated Affiliation Accommodations
Students who pursue the Accelerated Affiliation pathway may request accommodations from the following categories:
- Testing Accommodations
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- Extended testing time (1.25x/1.5x)
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- Small group, distraction-reduced testing environment
- Note-Taking Accommodations
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- Permission to audio record lectures
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- Advanced access to course materials
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- Use of an electronic device (laptop/tablet) for note-taking
- Classroom Accommodations
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- Priority seating
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- Breaks as needed
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- Use of food, beverages, or medical devices during class
Gold, Standard Affiliation (Meeting with an Access Coordinator Required)
This option includes a 50-minute access consultation (via phone, in person, or Zoom/Teams) with an Access Coordinator. It’s a great fit for students who:
- Are unsure which accommodations may be most supportive
- Have more nuanced access needs
- Would benefit from a conversation about what access and inclusion could look like
at UNC
During this consultation, your Access Coordinator will ask questions to learn more about your experiences and goals, identify potential barriers, and work with you to determine reasonable accommodations. You’ll also receive support connecting to relevant campus resources.
Steps to Affiliate with the DRC
Step 1: Complete the Initial Consultation Form
After reviewing the affiliation options, complete the Initial Consultation Form (LINK) and indicate if you’d like to be considered for the Blue, Accelerated Affiliation.
Step 2: Monitor Your èßätv Bear Email
After submitting your form, check your èßätv Bear email regularly for updates from the
DRC, including important next steps and appointment scheduling details.
If You Selected Gold, Standard Affiliation:
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- If your documentation is missing or additional information is needed, we will email you to request that.
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- You’ll receive an email with the subject line "Schedule an Access Consultation" from your assigned Access Coordinator. This will include a link to set up your 50-minute consultation.
If You Selected Blue, Accelerated Affiliation:
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- Once your application and documentation are reviewed, we will notify you of the outcome.
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- If accommodations are approved through this process, you will receive an email outlining your approved accommodations and next steps.