In limited cases, students with cognitive disorders may request a course substitution related to world language or math requirements. Planning should begin 1 – 2 semesters in advance. Core curriculum requirements are available online. Note: UA does not grant course waivers or exemptions for core curriculum requirements.
World Language Substitution
Students should consult their academic advisor and DegreeWorks to confirm world language credit requirements based on their academic catalog term. If a disability makes language learning nearly impossible, a course substitution may be requested through ODS.
Students who begin earning baccalaureate credit as a degree-seeking student in Fall 2025 or after must demonstrate world language proficiency through one of the following:
- Complete an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science at a postsecondary institution that is fully accredited by one of the six agencies listed in the Undergraduate Transfer Credit Policy.
- Complete and pass a two-semester sequence of introductory language courses in a single world language (6-8 semester hours) at UA. Students may also transfer an equivalent sequence from another postsecondary institution, subject to the Undergraduate Transfer Credit Policy. In addition to satisfying the world language proficiency requirement, these courses will also count towards the fulfillment of the Humanities/Literature/Fine Arts/World Language general education requirement.
- Complete and pass UA’s written composition sequence for non-native speakers of English – EN 120 and EN 121. Students who complete this sequence will also satisfy the Written Composition requirement of the general education.
- Complete a world language placement exam at UA and score high enough to be placed at the 201-level or above. Students placing into the second part of an introductory language sequence course (102) will satisfy the world language proficiency requirement after successfully completing the 102 course.
- Complete and pass two years of world language in high school as documented on the official high school transcript.
- Meet the criteria to receive a Seal of Biliteracy.
- Complete an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science at a postsecondary institution that is fully accredited by one of the six agencies listed in the Undergraduate Transfer Credit Policy.
Math Substitution
Students should consult their academic advisor or DegreeWorks to identify requirements based on major and degree program. Often, these courses are considered essential due to accreditation, licensure, or career readiness. If a disability makes learning math nearly impossible, students may request a course substitution through ODS.
Process to request a substitution
After reviewing degree requirements and speaking with their academic advisor, students needing a course substitution should:
- Register with ODS (i.e., complete an application, upload disability documentation, and meet with an Accommodations Specialist)
- Email ODS Executive Director Vanessa Goepel (vanessa.goepel@ua.edu) with the following:
- Type of substitution requested (i.e., math or world language)
- Disability-related reason for the substitution
- Relevant details (i.e., prior attempts or challenges)
The request will be reviewed and, if appropriate, a substitution will be recommended to the college of student's major. The college evaluates whether the substitution alters the program and, if appropriate, suggests alternatives. Final approval comes from the Office for Academic Affairs and ODS will notify the student of the decision.