Policies and Standards
To create accessible digital content, it’s important to understand the laws, standards and policies that guide accessibility. This page highlights key federal and state requirements, as well as Western Michigan University’s policies.
Web Accessibility Policy
WMU’s Web Accessibility Policy ensures all university websites and digital content are usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. It follows WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards so students, employees and visitors can access online content equally and independently.
Non-Discrimination Policy
WMU’s Non-Discrimination Policy protects everyone from unfair treatment, harassment or retaliation based on race, gender, disability, age, and other protected characteristics. It ensures a safe, inclusive environment for all.
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), sets global standards for making web content accessible. It's built on four principles—Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust (POUR)—and includes three levels: A, AA, and AAA. In the U.S., WCAG 2.1 Level AA is the standard for compliance under ADA Title II.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II
Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires state and local governments, including public universities, to make all programs and services—physical and digital—accessible. In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice updated the rule to require websites and mobile apps to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in programs receiving federal funding, including public universities. This means digital content and technology must be accessible.