Digital Accessibility

SEAS is committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access knowledge, ideas, and resources. Digital accessibility enhances access to content for people with and without disabilities.

As we create digital materials—whether emails, PDFs, newsletters, web content, or content developed by vendors—for internal or external audiences, we all share the responsibility of making them accessible. Creating Harvard-accessible digital content is now a requirement.

Accessibility resources

The SEAS Office of Computing offers IT support and academic assistance to SEAS faculty and students. This includes guidance on using computing resources and creating accessible content to support learning and research.

All audio or video content created and produced at Harvard and published on a University website must be captioned. Contact the SEAS Office of Communications early in your planning process for guidance and support.

Harvard University’s Digital Accessibility Services provide training, office hours, and helpful resources for the Harvard community—including a convenient quick start guide.

The Harvard University Digital Accessibility Policy outlines how the University ensures access for individuals with disabilities who use University websites to participate in programs, activities, or conduct University business.

Frequently asked accessibility questions

How difficult is it to make my content accessible?

  1. Start by adding a link to the Harvard Digital Accessibility Policy in your website footer. The link text should include the words “Digital Accessibility.” This helps streamline the request process and signals your site’s commitment to accessibility.
  2. As a website administrator, you can also use this 10-point checklist for content creators to ensure your content is accessible from the start.
  3. Learn how SEAS colleagues are integrating accessibility practices into their workflows.

How difficult is it to produce accessible code?

  1. If you’re a developer, this 10 point checklist for developers outlines fundamental practices for writing accessible code.
  2. You can also explore how SEAS developers are incorporating accessibility into their development processes.