The Standard: WCAG 2.1

Florida State University is legally required to ensure all public-facing digital content—websites, documents, videos, and social media—is accessible to everyone. But compliance isn’t just about the law; it is about excellence. When we design for accessibility, we create a better, more inclusive experience for all.

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) updated its regulations for Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (opens in new window) (ADA) in April 2024. The final rule requires public universities to ensure that web content and mobile applications (including academic course content) are accessible to people with disabilities. To be compliant, course content must meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Version 2.1, Level AA (opens in new window). The deadline to comply with the DOJ rule is April 24, 2026. All content moving forward should continue to comply.

The WCAG documents explain how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities. Web “content” generally refers to the information in a web page or web application, including:

Natural information such as text, images, and sounds
Code or markup that defines structure, presentation, etc.

How to Get Started

1. Assess Your Current Content

Before fixing everything, identify what you have. Use automated tools to scan your most-visited pages and high-impact documents.

Web Editors: Use Siteimprove to monitor your website for broken links and accessibility errors.
Instructors: Use Ally in Canvas to see the accessibility "score" of your course files.

2. Apply the "Big Four" Basics

Most accessibility issues can be solved by following these four fundamental rules:

Headings Use H1, H2, and H3 tags in a logical, nested order. Avoid using bold text alone to create visual headers, as screen readers rely on the underlying code to navigate the page.

Alt Text Provide concise descriptions for all non-decorative images. This allows users with visual impairments to understand the context and purpose of the visual content.

Contrast Ensure a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for standard text against its background. High contrast is essential for readability, especially for users with low vision.

Links Use descriptive link text that makes sense out of context, such as "View the 2024 Budget Report." Avoid vague phrases like "Click Here" or "Read More."

3. Leverage FSU Resources

You don't have to do this alone. FSU provides several platforms for training and support:

ITS Accessibility Technical support for website compliance and access to Siteimprove monitoring. Office of Digital Learning Expert guidance for Canvas course materials and instructional design. Siteimprove Dashboard Automated crawling for accessibility errors, broken links, and SEO improvements across department sites. Office of Accessibility Services Support for student accommodations and assistive technology. Compliance Tools A curated collection of contrast checkers, PDF testers, and screen reader software. LinkedIn Learning Free on-demand courses on digital accessibility for all FSU faculty and staff.