Thesis / Dissertation Accommodations

Accommodations for thesis and dissertation work required by graduate programs are determined by Student Disability Resources (SDR) in consultation with the graduate program and/or associated committees. This process is individualized and considers the academic standards of the program, the student’s functional limitations, and the nature of the research or defense setting.

Accommodations

Examples include:

  • Additional or more frequent drafts for feedback and review (e.g., thesis, proposal defense, dissertation defense, timelines for due dates)
  • Greater frequency of committee reviews or scheduled supervisory meetings (e.g., biweekly, monthly)
  • Guidelines, expectations, and conduct for committee/supervisory relationships and communications
  • Preparation of a structured agenda for defense
  • Opportunity to take breaks during defense
  • Receipt of both oral and written feedback
  • Flexibility with deadlines and benchmarks
  • Assistance with Academic Improvement Plans developed by the department, if indicated 
Important Note: Graduate students are encouraged to initiate the accommodation process well in advance of proposal or dissertation defenses to allow time for coordination and planning.