Disability Definitions
Disability
A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity. The definition of disability also includes having a record of such impairment or being regarded as having such an impairment.
Physical or mental impairment
Any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting any of several body systems, including neurological, musculoskeletal, special sense organ, respiratory (including speech organs), cardiovascular, reproductive, digestive, genitourinary, hemic and lymphatic, skin, endocrine, and any mental or psychological disorder. It does not include nonchronic impairments of short duration with little or no long-term impact, such as broken limbs, sprained joints, concussions, appendicitis, and influenza. Physical characteristics such as left-handedness and personality traits such as being irresponsible or having poor judgment are not covered impairments.
Major life activity
A function such as caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, sitting, standing, lifting, reaching, and working. Exercising cognitive functions is also a major life activity. Multiple impairments that combine to substantially limit a major life activity may also be considered a form of disability.
Qualified individual with a disability
A person with a disability who is able to perform the essential functions of his or her job and/or academic activities, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Reasonable accommodation
Any change or adjustment to a job or academic environment that permits a qualified student, faculty or staff with a disability to participate in the academic process and job application process, to perform the essential functions of a job, or to enjoy benefit and privileges of employment equal to those enjoyed by employees without disabilities. Accommodations must be considered and made on a case-by-case basis. Some examples of accommodations that may be considered are job restructuring, reassignment, flexible leave, light duty, acquisition or modification of equipment and devices, and adjusting or modifying examinations, training materials, and policies.
Undue hardship
Determined on the basis of the size of the university, the nature and composition of the workforce, the nature and cost of the accommodation, whether the individual with the disability will pose a health and/or safety threat, and the possibility that other prospective students, faculty or staff members will be able to use the same accommodation. An accommodation would generally be determined to represent an undue hardship if it would be unduly costly, extensive, substantial, or disruptive, or would fundamentally alter the nature or operation of the university.
