Supporting Accessibility
New DOJ Web Accessibility Requirements (ADA Title II)
The Department of Justice's new web accessibility requirements mandate that state and local government websites and mobile apps comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards to ensure equal access to public online services for people with disabilities. These standards cover aspects like alt text for images, keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility. Based on size, UNM must meet compliance by April 24, 2026. For an overview of common digital accessibility topics, including how-to resources, see the Center for Teaching and Learning’s Digital Accessibility Standards website.
Ally for Instructors
Ally flags accessibility issues in your course files and pages, and provides step-by-step guidance to help you resolve them. It highlights common issues like missing alternative text or low contrast and shows you how to fix them directly within Canvas. Using Ally helps make your course materials more accessible and improves the learning experience for all students. Start with: How to Use Ally.
Ally for Students 
Students can click the Alternative Formats icon ( 
) to download accessible versions of common file types (structured PDF, HTML/ePub for mobile, MP3 audio, electronic braille, etc.). Learn more: Viewing Content – Alternative Formats.
Accessibility within Canvas
Canvas adheres to modern accessibility standards and practices. Learn more about Canvas accessibility standards and Section 508.
Making accommodations for assessments in UNM Canvas
- Differentiated Due Dates for Assignments
- Extended Time for Classic Quizzes
- Accommodations for Students in New Quizzes
If you have concerns about accessibility in UNM Canvas, please contact the UNM Canvas Support team.
Campus resources for students with a disability 
The UNM Accessibility Resource Center provides comprehensive resources to the University community in order tocreate equitable, inclusive, and practical learning environments. They can help faculty and students with course accommodations and may be able to help provide students with access to adaptive technology that can help them use UNM Canvas courses. The Accessibility Resource Center website contains a listing of computer labs and adaptive software available to Resource Center clients.
