Why these standards are important to UNC
Everyone in the University community deserves to be able to use required systems and materials to do their work, teaching, learning and research. When systems and materials are clear, easy to get to and easy to use, everyone has the opportunity to do their best work, teaching, learning and research.
When systems or materials aren’t clear, easy to get to or easy to use, it can be difficult or even impossible to complete necessary job duties, teaching activities, learning assignments or research tasks. An example of something that’s easier to use is a video with a clear title, a meaningful description, a transcript, chapters and accurate captions. These features make the video easier for more people to use, whether they’re new to the content, returning to it, reading the transcript, watching in a noisy environment or using special tools to navigate the video.
When everyone at the University keeps clarity, easy access and easy use in mind when selecting systems or creating materials, they are positively contributing to making systems and materials accessible to everyone who works, teaches, learns, does research or works with the University.
What these standards cover
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Digital Accessibility Policy consists of standards for accessibility of digital content and procurement. If you have any questions, reach out to the Digital Accessibility Office by email.
Digital Content and Materials Standard
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has set standards to make sure all digital content is accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. This includes websites, documents, and other digital materials.
- Purpose and Legal Requirements: UNC-Chapel Hill aims to enhance access to learning and comply with laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
- What This Standard Applies To: This standard applies to all digital materials created or used by the University, covering everyone involved in their creation or maintenance.
- Examples of Compliance: Examples include adding alternative text to images, checking video captions, and ensuring course materials are accessible to all students.
- Compliance Level: The University follows the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 Level AA for all new digital materials.
- Action Plan for Existing Materials: By April 24, 2026, all existing digital materials must be made accessible, prioritizing accommodation requests and providing alternatives if needed.
- Ongoing Responsibilities: University units must regularly evaluate digital materials for compliance, provide necessary training, and cover the costs of accessibility.
- Training Requirements: Key individuals like web developers and content creators must complete digital accessibility training, with specialized classes recommended for specific roles. All individuals must complete the Digital Accessibility Awareness course
- Exceptions: Exceptions can be made for minimal use or undue burden, but they must be approved by the Digital Accessibility Office with detailed justification.
Procurement Of Digital Content and Materials Standard
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has set up some standards to make sure all digital content and materials purchased are accessible to everyone. These rules cover everything from websites to library resources and even social media.
- Purpose and Importance: UNC-Chapel Hill aims to provide a welcoming and fair digital experience by ensuring all digital materials are accessible.
- Who It Applies To: These standards apply to everyone at the university involved in procuring digital materials, including third parties when the situation is under the university’s control.
- Types of Digital Materials: The standards cover a wide range of digital materials such as websites, video and audio content, electronic documents, software applications, and more.
- Procurement Process: There are specific steps for each procurement phase: search, purchase and contract, and renewal, to ensure accessibility.
- Documentation and Evaluation: Units must obtain and evaluate accessibility documentation like VPATs, ACRs, or HECVATs during the procurement process.
- Training Requirements: Anyone involved in purchasing digital materials must complete training on procuring accessible digital content before starting the procurement process.
- Handling Non-Compliance: If vendors fail to meet accessibility standards, units must create a plan to resolve issues and may need to file a complaint if problems persist.