USC is committed to providing equal access to university programs, services, and events. Individuals with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations or auxiliary aids are encouraged to submit requests as early as possible to allow sufficient time for coordination.
Accommodation requests should be directed to the USC department, school, or organization for sponsoring the event or program. Early communication helps ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.
Whenever possible, requests should be submitted at least 7 business days in advance of the event. While every effort will be made to respond to late requests, accommodation cannot be guaranteed without sufficient notice.
Once a request is received, the sponsoring department will review the information and may follow up if additional details are needed. USC engages in an interactive process to determine reasonable accommodations that provide equal access while maintaining the essential nature of the program, service, or event.
Effective Communication
Effective communication means that information shared through spoken, written, or multimedia formats is accessible and provided in a manner that allows for equal participation.
A variety of auxiliary aids and services may be used to support effective communication, including sign language interpreters, Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART), assistive listening devices (ALDs), and captioned media. The appropriate accommodation will depend on the individual’s preferred method of communication and the nature of the program or event.
USC partners with vetted accessibility service providers to coordinate interpreting, CART, and captioning services. Event organizers are expected to plan for accessibility and use approved vendors when arranging services.
Sign Language Interpreters
Sign language interpreters facilitate communication by translating spoken content into American Sign Language (ASL) or other signed languages in real time. Interpreters are commonly used by individuals who are Deaf and whose primary language is ASL.
Interpreters are provided for USC programs and events upon request. For large, public, or high-impact events, organizers should consider arranging interpreters proactively.
Individuals requesting accommodations should contact the event organizer in advance and will be asked about their preferred method of communication access. USC will make every reasonable effort to provide requested services in accordance with the ADA.
- Share agendas, presentation materials, and speaker information in advance when available.
- Ensure appropriate interpreter placement and clear sightlines within the event space.
- For virtual or hybrid events, coordinate interpreter pinning and visibility.
Communication Access Realtime Translation
Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) provides real-time captioning by a trained professional who converts spoken content into text displayed on a screen, laptop, tablet, or mobile device. CART may be provided onsite or remotely and ensures access to spoken content for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as others who benefit from visual access to audio information.
CART services are provided upon request for USC programs and events. CART should be arranged for events that are live streamed or include a live virtual audience. For large, public, or high-impact events, proactive planning is encouraged.
Individuals requesting accommodations should contact the event organizer in advance. Every reasonable effort will be made to provide services consistent with ADA requirements.
- CART may be provided onsite or remotely depending on event format.
- Provide access to clear audio feeds.
- Share presentation materials in advance to support accuracy.
Captioned Media
Captioned media includes synchronized text for spoken dialogue and relevant audio content in videos and multimedia materials. Captions support individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and also benefit viewers in various learning and viewing environments.
In accordance with USC’s Digital Accessibility Policy, all videos and multimedia content that are live streamed, shared virtually, or posted online must include accurate captions.
- Captions must be accurate and synchronized.
- Relevant non-speech audio (e.g., music, sound cues) should be included when necessary for understanding.
- Auto-generated captions alone are generally insufficient unless reviewed and corrected for accuracy to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
- When possible, captions should be enabled by default for virtual and hybrid events.
Assistive Listening Devices
Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) amplify sound and reduce background noise to support individuals who are hard of hearing. ALDs may be used with or without hearing aids and can include hearing loop systems or FM receivers.
USC offers assistive listening options in select venues, including hearing loop–equipped spaces and portable FM systems that may be available for checkout. Availability varies by location.
Information about looped buildings and venues with available ALDs can be found on the USC campus map.
- Advance notice is recommended to confirm ALD availability or to identify alternative communication access options if needed.
- If ALDs are not available in a specific venue, alternative communication access options will be provided as appropriate.
Wheelchair Rentals for Visitors
We are excited to welcome you to USC. Please note that USC typically does not provide courtesy wheelchair rentals or golf cart transportation services for visitors and guests.
In limited circumstances, such as commencement ceremonies at the University Park Campus, a small number of wheelchairs may be available. Individuals attending specific events are encouraged to contact the event organizers directly to confirm availability.
To ensure access to mobility equipment when needed, visitors are encouraged to arrange rentals in advance through a local medical equipment provider. The companies listed below are provided as courtesy. USC does not endorse, guarantee, or assume responsibility for the services, equipment, pricing, or policies of third-party providers. Individuals are encouraged to independently evaluate vendor qualifications, availability, and terms prior to rental.
Suggested wheelchair rental suppliers: