What is DSPS?
(Disablity Support Programs and Services) The DSPS Department is the campus office responsible for determining and providing required academic accommodations for students with disabilities. A variety of support services (e.g. test proctoring, sign language interpreting, priority registration, disability management counseling) are provided to students with verified disabilities.
How do I go about using the services offered by DSPS?
A complete orientation is available online. You must turn in the following three documents before services can start:
1. DSPS Application
2. Online Orientation Certificate of Completion, and
3. Release and Verification of Disability Form completed by an appropriate professional (Copies of medical or psychological records may be sufficient)
After turning in all required forms to the DSPS office you will be contacted within 5 working days and informed of the next step toward receiving services. The online orientation is the preferred method; however, as an alternative , you may sign up at the DSPS front desk (I3-101) or call (619) 388-2780 or tty 388-2974 for an individual appointment.
How is the confidentiality of a student's records/status maintained through the DSPS Department?
No information is released from DSPS without Release of Information Form signed by the student. There is nothing on a student's enrollment or transcript to indicate that a student is registered with, or receiving services from DSPS. (DSPS classes do appear on the transcript, however). With permission from you, your DSPS counselor will discuss services and/or educational limitations with your instructor.
How long are the student's records maintained in the DSPS Department?
Documentation of a permanent disability is maintained for 3 years. Verification information will be copied and returned to the student. Students are strongly encouraged to keep copies of documentation for future use when requesting accommodations elsewhere.
Are registration fees waived at Mesa College for students with disabilities?
No. Students with disabilities are responsible for the same fees and payments as all other students attending the college. Students receiving SSI may be eligible for the Board of Governors Grant (BOGFW).
Is my State of California placard sufficient for disabled parking on campus?
Yes. You do not need to purchase a Mesa College parking sticker.
Is there a fee for services through the DSPS Department?
No. Services are authorized appropriate to each student's disability, and provided free of charge.
Are there special financial aid packages available to students with disabilities?
Information regarding financial assistance for all students is available from the Financial Aid Office (I3-l00). Scholarship information is available at Student Affairs (H-500). Other resources may include the State Department of Rehabilitation and the Social Security Administration.
Does Mesa College waive course and/or test requirements for students with disabilities?
No. All students must meet both the course and test requirements for graduation. In rare instances, students may petition to have a graduation requirement substituted with alternative course work. Petitions are considered on a case-by-case basis. This is a lengthy process and students are encouraged to meet all requirements as outlined in the catalog. Appropriate support services are available to assist you.
All I need is test proctoring assistance; do I still need to use DSPS services?
Yes, DSPS will verify that this service is a reasonable accommodation for a class on an individual basis. You prepare for this service by viewing the Student Handbook for Test Proctoring Procedures and completing the Test Proctoring Orientation before seeing your DSPS Counselor.