ADA Title II Accessibility Guide for Public Universities
ADA Title II: What Public Websites Must Do (Plain Language Guide)
ADA Title II is a civil rights rule that requires state and local governments—including public universities—to make their websites and digital content usable by people with disabilities. It means everyone should be able to find information, fill out forms, watch videos, and use tools online without barriers.
What the rule requires
Follow accessibility standards similar to WCAG (industry guidelines) so pages, files, and media work with assistive tools like screen readers and keyboard-only navigation.
Make content perceivable: provide text alternatives for images, readable text, enough color contrast, and captions or transcripts for audio and video.
Make content operable: all actions must be possible with a keyboard; no time limits without a way to extend; clear focus order; avoid content that flashes.
Make content understandable: clear headings, simple link text, consistent navigation, and plain language where possible.
Make content robust: use proper HTML structure so assistive technology can interpret pages, forms, and documents.
Why public universities must act
It is the law: Title II covers public institutions. Websites, student portals, course materials, event pages, and PDFs must be accessible.
Equity and inclusion: students, staff, and visitors with disabilities deserve equal access to admissions, classes, housing, aid, and campus life.
Lower risk: accessibility reduces complaints, investigations, and legal exposure.
Bottom line: ADA Title II asks public universities to make digital content work for everyone. Start with clear structure, meaningful text, accessible media, and well-labeled forms. Small changes across many pages make a big difference.