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  1. Overview

Applicants With Disabilities

The University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University MSTP recognizes that our training environment is positively enriched by trainees with diverse backgrounds and needs, and welcomes students with disabilities.  We strive to create, foster and sustain an inclusive environment that incorporates Universal Design and that provides equal opportunities for all members of our community.    Students from all backgrounds who are US citizens or permanent residents are encouraged to apply.  Our program gives full consideration to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, veteran status, disability, national origin, creed, marital status, age, disability, gender identity or sexual orientation.  We make every effort to ensure that qualified applicants can take full advantage of the programs available with the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. 

Applicants under consideration for admission to the MSTP may disclose a disability and request accommodation during the admission process.  Disclosure is not required.  Applicants who choose to disclose a disability during the admission process should write, call, or visit the Senior Advisor for Medical Education (jeannerette@medschool.pitt.edu) to facilitate arrangements.

Our policies and guidelines apply to students who self-identify a documented disability before or after formal acceptance as well as those who become disabled after enrollment.  The School of Medicine and MSTP encourages students with disabilities to identify themselves as easily as possible so that reasonable accommodations for which they may be eligible can be determined and provided through the Office of Disability Resources and Services.  Please keep in mind that the disclosure of a disability is completely voluntary and will be kept confidential.   All enrolled students must possess the intellectual, physical and emotional capabilities described in the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Technical Standards for the Doctor of Medicine Degree.  Accommodations and assistive technologies will facilitate, but not obviate, the need to meet these standards.

The MSTP office collaborates with the University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences Diversity Office and with the Office of Disability Resources and Services at Pitt to enhance recruitment, enrollment, and retention of underrepresented minority (URM) students including those with disabilities.   The Office of Disability Resources and Services evaluates the need for and nature of accommodations to facilitate full participation in the program’s educational mission. Further resources can be provided by the Center for Assistive Technology that was established by the University of Pittsburgh in a joint program with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, UPMC, to establish assistive technology related to mobility, communication, and comfort.  Students with spinal cord injury can apply for supplemental support through Neilsen Foundation grants submitted through the Office of Disability Resources.

The Pittsburgh MSTP participates in efforts throughout the University and beyond that promote diversity and inclusion.