Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) established the Harris Family Center for Disability and Health Policy (^HFCDHP) in 1998 in response to the concerns of the disabled community, which is emerging as one of the nation’s fastest growing and least understood minority groups.

WesternU has a proud history of welcoming students with disabilities into our professional schools and Graduate Division. We pride ourselves in giving individualized consideration of each student’s abilities, and the disability related barriers they face, to devise creative and innovative accommodation solutions to ensure equal access. 

As a graduate and professional school institution, certain unique aspects of the educational experience are different from the undergraduate experience. To learn more, contact ^HFCDHP to discuss accommodations you may need to prepare for academic and clinical experiences at WesternU. 

^HFCDHP Mission:

The mission of the Harris Family Center for Disability and Health Policy (^HFCDHP) is to increase the number of qualified individuals with disabilities to successfully pursue careers in the health professions. We support the University’s commitment to equity and diversity by providing support services and academic accommodations to students with disabilities. We share information, promote awareness of disability issues, and ensure access for students within the University community.

News & Announcements

Scholarship Opportunity Available

Each year Learning Ally members who are completing undergraduate or graduate degrees, and who are blind or visually impaired are eligible to apply for our Mary P. Oenslager Scholastic Achievement Award (SAA) scholarship program in recognition of academic achievement, outstanding leadership, and service to others.

Scholarships range from $3,000 to $6,000 and are awarded to the top six students who are chosen by a national selection committee, based on the student’s academic achievements, educational achievement, outstanding leadership and service to others.

Applications are being accepted now through the end of the year. Winners will be notified of awards in early 2023.

Just a friendly reminder, we are currently in remote operations. For more information or questions about disability accommodations, email us at disabilityaccommodations@westernu.edu.