Oregon State University (OSU) is committed to providing access to all. One way that OSU does this is by acknowledging that some students may require a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) while in the learning/living environment.
Please be aware:
OSU does not provide PCA services.
PCAs are hired, paid and employed by the student they are assisting.
PCAs are not course or lab assistants.
PCAs are required to abide by all OSU policies, including but not limited to the Student Code of Conduct and UHDS rules and regulations.
PCAs are only permitted in the living environment based on the needs of the student and within UHDS rules and regulations.
Generally, attached PCA rooms are provided when a PCA is needed for 25 hours per week of work.
In most cases, the PCA-attached room is not considered the primary residence for the PCA.
PCAs are non-active participants in the academic, learning, and living environments. Generally, PCAs are not expected to attend classes/labs as DAS will work with the student to provide a classroom assistant for academic access.
Non-active participant means that if a PCA is needed, then the PCA should not be auditing or taking the course, asking questions, making comments, or taking an active role in the course, classroom, or in meetings.
Academic/learning environments include, but are not limited to, classrooms, labs, research testing areas, group meetings, faculty/student meetings, advisor meetings, or other academic events. In addition, PCAs may need to accompany the student on a field trip or internship if personal care is required.
Living environments include club participation, residential areas, dining halls, OSU non-academic resources departments/areas, and other social events.
To bring a PCA to OSU, a student must register with Disability Access Services (DAS).
If a PCA is required while living in the residence halls, the student must register with DAS and request housing accommodations through University Housing and Dining Services (UHDS).
Refer to the PCA guidelines for more detailed information regarding student, PCA and Disability Access Services (DAS) roles and responsibilities.
Updated: 09/2022