Prospective Students
Thank you for your interest in Wheaton College. Here is some information to consider to determine if Wheaton is for you.
Denyse M. Wilhelm, Assistant Dean of Academic Resources and Disability Services, ADA/504 Coordinator, is available to meet with students and family members prior to admission on an appointment basis. You may be on campus for your interview with the Office of Admission or during Visiting Days when it may be convenient to schedule an appointment to meet with Dean Wilhelm.
Some information to consider:
Q. When and where do I submit my documentation?
A. Documentation should be submitted after you have received written notice of your acceptance to Wheaton. Please send all documentation to the attention of Dean Wilhelm.
Q. How do I disclose my disability?
A. Every accepted student is mailed a Learning Needs Disclosure Form. Please complete this form and send it to Dean Wilhelm. You may also call or e-mail Dean Wilhelm during the semester and request an appointment at which time you can complete the form.
Q. Does Wheaton have a separate disabilities program?
A. No. Students are mainstreamed and are provided disability support services on a request basis only provided the student has a documented disability that affects learning.
Q. How many staff i.e. learning specialists, coaches, and directors are available?
A. Wheaton does not provide intensive supports such as coaching thus there is not this level of staffing. The department is under Academic Advising and Dean Wilhelm will work with each student who discloses a disability.
Q. How many students with learning disabilities receive services?
A. Approximately 200 students out of the entire student body will disclose either after admission or early on in their first semester. Of that, approximately 42% will activate their accommodations.
Q. Are there evening hours?
A. No. The Assistant Dean position is full time, 12 months and works during the hours of 8:30 - 4:30.
Q. Is there a special orientation for students with disabilities?
A. Yes. The College offers a two day pre-orientation program for students with disabilities. Students can elect to move on campus two days prior to the freshman class and participate in a small group orientation program. Please view last year's Orientation Schedule.
Q. What kind of Assistive Technology is available for students?
A. The Assistive Technology is primarily provided by the the Information and Technology Services staff located in the Library. Dean Wilhelm works closely with the IT staff to coordinate use of specialized software and technology. Students can be assigned a student worker to scan reading material. Students can arrange to obtain alternative text formats. More information is available here.
Q. Do students with learning disabilities get priority registration? Who helps them with registration?
A. Yes. That is determined on a case by case basis which is coordinated with the First Year Associate Dean, Dean Wilhelm and the Office of the Registrar.
Q. Can students take a reduced course load if necessary?
A. Yes, provided that their documented disability identifies this as an accommodation. Dean Wilhelm will assist students with this process.
Q. Is there one-to-one tutoring available for students with disabilities?
A. No. All tutoring services are provided on a group model with peer tutors who have been recommended by the specific academic department to the Tutoring Coordinator. However, there are writing tutors and associates who provide one-to-one services for all students. Please visit the Kollett Center Collaborative Learning for more information and tutor schedule.
Q. Is their a foreign language and/or math waiver?
A. No. For foreign language requirements, students can substitute two courses that are within a foreign language discipline but are taught in English. Dean Wilhelm will assist students with the petition process to coordinate the foreign language substitution.
There is no waiver for the math requirement, however there are courses which combine art with a discipline for students who do not require a standard math course for their major. Wheaton allows students to transfer credits earned for a math course as long as it meets the departments' criteria for transfer.
Q. How do I make a request for special housing?
A. If you have special housing needs due to a physical disability or medical condition, you must complete a special needs housing application available in the Office of Student Life. Portions of the application will need to be completed by your doctor. Decisions for special needs housing are made by Student life, Academic Advising and Health Services. More information is available here.
Q. Are there career and internship services?
A. Yes. The Filene Center for Academic Advising and Career Services provides comprehensive one to one services for students through out their educational career.
For more information on criteria for documentation, temporary accommodations, notification on the American with Disabilities Act, Grievance procedures, and other topics, please visit the links on this page.