Accessibility Guidelines on the University of Maine System Website
The University of Maine System (UMS) is committed to providing accessible digital information, services, and experiences in alignment with University policy and applicable accessibility laws and regulations. Therefore, all content published on maine.edu must meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. The maine.edu website, including its web pages, content, and documents, is also subject to a resolution agreement with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) regarding website accessibility.
For information about University policy and accessibility requirements:
- Read Board of Trustees Policy Section 902
- Visit Title II Regulations and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Read the Office for Civil Rights Resolution Agreement
Resources for UMS employees
University of Maine System employees can find digital accessibility resources, training, and practical guidance on the University of Maine System Digital Accessibility MyCampus page.
Accessibility quick tips
Creating accessible content benefits everyone. When creating or updating content for a University of Maine System website, keep these basic accessibility practices in mind.
PDFs and documents: Whenever possible, publish information as accessible web content rather than uploading a PDF. When a PDF or other document is necessary, make sure it is accessible before publishing. Creating accessibility in the source document, such as Microsoft Word, is generally easier than correcting accessibility issues after a PDF has been created.
Images: Provide meaningful alternative text for images that convey information. Images that are purely decorative should be identified appropriately so assistive technologies can ignore them. Do not rely on images alone to communicate essential information.
Headings and page structure: Use descriptive headings and organize them in a logical hierarchy. Use built-in heading and list formatting rather than relying on visual formatting such as bold text, font size, or indentation to communicate structure.
Links: Use descriptive link text that tells users where a link will take them. Avoid vague phrases such as “click here” or displaying a long web address when meaningful link text can be used instead.
Color and visual presentation: Make sure text and other meaningful visual elements have sufficient color contrast. Do not use color alone to communicate meaning or distinguish information.
Video and audio: Provide accurate captions for prerecorded video with audio and transcripts or other appropriate text alternatives for audio-only content. Consider accessibility requirements when planning live virtual events and other multimedia experiences.
Consistency and readability: Use clear, concise language and consistent formatting. Familiar page structures, meaningful headings, and straightforward content make information easier to navigate and understand for all users.
