Information for Students with Disabilities

Vision
The Office of the Dean of Students can provide guides to help you get to know the campus during your first few weeks. Other students can be hired as note takers or to produce raised-line drawings or other aids. The computing center has scanners, screenread software with voice synthesizers, and large monitors so that you will have access to the same software everyone uses. The library has an extensive interlibrary loan service that will search for materials in alternative media for you.
Deaf or Hearing Impaired
The Office of the Dean of Students will assist in providing interpreting services as requested. For those hearing impaired, FM assistive listening systems are available to students and faculty for use in any setting where helpful, and new multifunction spaces have audio loops. Other students can be hired as notetakers when appropriate.
Mobility or Manipulation Difficulty
Construction of Bates College began in 1855, and there are a number of historic older buildings on campus. Not every room in every building is accessible to a person using a wheelchair, but all common and public spaces are. Whenever indicated, classes will be scheduled in accessible spaces, and the Office of the Dean of Students will, when physically feasible, make reasonable changes to residences to accommodate students' housing desires. Continuous progress is being made in modifying all buildings to make them convenient to use, not just technically "accessible." Nevertheless, the campus is hilly, and winter can be difficult. If you use a wheelchair, we strongly encourage you to visit the campus during the snow season.
If you require personal attendants, the Student Employment Office can assist you in identifying and employing suitable people, from either inside or outside the College community.
The Office of Technical Services can assist in constructing tools and adapting laboratory apparatus, when appropriate, to improve access to the curriculum. Under your supervision, the office can also assist with minor repairs to wheelchairs and orthotic/prosthetic appliances. Major service can be provided by any of several shops in the area.
Learning Disabilities
If you have a documentable learning disability or think you might, identify yourself! The Office of Dean of Students can help arrange for appropriate testing to define your situation precisely so that you can work with the faculty as necessary to develop learning strategies to help you succeed at Bates. When aware of the need, faculty will modify teaching and examination methods to meet your real situation. The College also organizes workshops, tutorial programs, and peer discussion groups.
Health Center
The Bates College Heath Center has a diverse staff of physicians, nurses, counselors, and consultants available to assist you confidentially with any chronic or acute health condition, around the clock. The Center combines healthcare services with a continuing program of health education in which many students are involved as peer counselors and resources. For more information about services available through the Center and two nearby hospitals, see the brochure published by the Health Center.
Class Location
When notified in advance, the College will make every effort to schedule classrooms with regard for physical access and other factors which can affect your ability to participate fully in class activities.
Faculty
The Office of the Dean of Students arranges faculty workshops regarding accommodations that might be needed by students with disabilities. You are encouraged to discuss your concerns with your faculty advisor.
Telephone Numbers
Admissions
(207) 786-6000 (Voice)
(207) 786-6024 (TTY)
(207) 786-6025 (Fax)
Dean of Students
(207) 786-6222
Health Center
(207) 786-6199
Technical Services
(207) 786-6396

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