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Human Resources

CSU Assistive Device Program

Empowering faculty and staff with disabilities through assistive device support.

Assistive Device Graphic

Supporting Accessibility, Enhancing Productivity

The CSU Assistive Device Program provides support to faculty and staff with permanent disabilities to ensure they can perform the essential functions of their roles. Below, you'll find information about eligibility, the application process, guidelines, and important policies.

Read the Full CSU Assistive Device Policy

Program Overview

The Assistive Device Program is designed to support faculty and staff with permanent disabilities in acquiring assitive devices or adaptive equipment that facilitate the performance of job-related activies. This program is distinct from ergonomic adjustments, as it focuses on remedial solutions for employees' disability-related needs.

Purpose and Use of Program

The program can be used to purchase:
  • Adaptive computer components and software (e.g., enlarged monitors, specialized software, scanners, voice-activated input systems).

  • In limited cases, computer hardware needed to support adaptive software.
The program will not cover:
  • Medical or mechanical engineering evaluations to determine accommodations.

  • Standard office equipment (e.g., chairs, desks, office machinery).

  • Purchases costing $100 or less.

Eligibility & Ownership

Eligibility
  • Available to current permanent and temporary employees (excluding student employees).

  • Applicants must be employees who need assistive devices for the essential functions of their jobs.

  • The program provides for adaptive equipment and auxiliary assistance for up to 48 weeks per year for 12-month employees, and 34 weeks per year for academic-year employees. Temporary employees will receive assistance based on the length of their appointment.
Ownership of Equipment
  • Assistive devices or adaptive equipment purchased through this program remain the property of California State University, Fresno.

  • Equipment must be returned to Human Resources (Joyal Room 148) when no longer needed, such as upon employee separation or retirement.

  • In the event of a job transfer or promotion within the university, the equipment can continue to be used by the employee as long as it's needed for their new role.

Hands using a laptop

Request Criteria

  • Verification of Disability: A physician’s statement may be required for visible or non-visible disabilities.

  • Documentation: Applicants must document actual funding usage at the end of each semester. Any unused funds must be returned by the department to the Assistive Device Program.

  • Changes in Employment Status: Temporary employees must notify the program if there are changes in their work schedule, as this may require an additional or amended request.

Application Process

  1. Submit an Application
    Complete the application form with your contact information, job title, details about your disability condition, and any specific assistive device needs. Submit your completed form to the campus Assistive Device Program Coordinator by the specified deadlines each spring for the following academic year. Late applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

  2. Verification of Disability
    New applicants must provide verification of their disability, which can be in the form of a statement from a physician or healthcare professional, especially for non-visible disabilities.

  3. Auxiliary Assistance Requests
    If requesting funding for auxiliary assistance (e.g., a personal assistant), applicants must specify the hourly rate, weekly hours, and the number of weeks required.

  4. Review and Approval
    Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Assistive Device Program Coordinator. After review, it will be forwarded for final approval.

Assistive Device Application

Program Coordinator

Julie Irwin
Manager - Worker's Compensation / Interim ADA Coordinator
julie@csufresno.edu
559.278.2125