The Impact of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 on American Colleges and Universities. Technical Report

The physical facilities of 700 colleges and universities of the United States were studied by the National Center for Education Statistics in the fall of 1977. The primary study objectives were to: (1) develop a reliable estimate of what American colleges and universities must spend to make their programs accessible to the mobility impaired, as required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and (2) examine the relationship between physical plant accessibility and program accessibility. Information is presented on the current state of physical accessibility on American campuses and the way in which they will modify their space to achieve program accessibility. A detailed analysis of the cost implications is included, as are floor plans and architectural modification specifications. Estimates of the numbers and enrollment patterns of various groups of handicapped are presented. The ability of institutions of higher education to house these students is also discussed. Two technical chapters are included that discuss the methodology employed in the study and assess the quality of the data presented in the report. Limitations of the scope of the study are also covered. The final chapter describes how well institutions understand the impact of Section 504. Appendices include a sample survey instrument, site visit survey forms, and a study workbook. (SW)