Support for Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing Students
At Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), we at ACCESS believe equity should never be an afterthought. We intentionally take a proactive approach to support all d/Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing (HoH) students by creating an environment where they feel included and valued. Ultimately, our goal is to create a campus where d/Deaf and HoH individuals are fully integrated into an inclusive and welcoming campus. Students are encouraged to participate in every aspect of college life including extracurricular activities.
d/Deaf Services Video
The following video outlines the comprehensive support system available for d/Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard-of-Hearing (HoH) students.
Communication Access and Resources
Once approved for services, students can access qualified sign language interpreters (ASL or English-based) for all aspects of campus life. Since not all campus events are pre -staffed with interpreters, you must submit an Interpreter Request Form to ensure accessibility. Please provide as much detail as possible to help us expedite your request . The ACCESS team works with you to customize services based on your preferences, including interpreting, captioning, and assistive technology.
Camp Launch
Camp Launch is a camp for young D/deaf individuals that focuses on crucial pre -employment and/or college transition skills that will equip them to successfully navigate life post-high school. To learn more about this exciting and innovative ne w experience, please contact ACCESS Deaf Services.
Other Services Provided
Academic Accommodations
Academic accommodations for Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) college students ensure equitable access to education through services like American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, real-time captioning (CART), note-takers, and assistive technology. Key accommodations include preferred front-row seating, extended time on tests, captioned media, and for some, specialized Deaf interpreters or tactile communication for visual and, in some cases, deaf-blind students.
Sight Translation of Documents
After registering with ACCESS and being approved for interpreting services, students may request documents to be interpreted from text into ASL. For more information, please contact ACCESS Deaf Services at accessdeafservices@siue.edu.
Training Opportunities
ACCESS Deaf Services offers a variety of learning opportunities to support the postsecondary success of deaf and hard of hearing students at SIUE. If you're interested in learning more please email us at accessdeafservices@siue.edu.
