Experience of university life by disabled undergraduate students: the need to consider extra-curricular opportunities

Points of interestDisabled undergraduate students at university in the UK experience significant challenges which affect their academic work, social activities, sports and career development activities.This research found that some disabled undergraduate students felt well supported by university disability support but others felt much more support was needed.Some disabled undergraduate students do not take part in any social activities, sports or career development activities.University disability support for academic work should be developed so that all disabled students feel well supported.University disability support should be increased to include support for social activities, sports and career development activities. Many undergraduate students attending UK universities have a chronic illness or disability. Support for disabled students has increased in recent years through government funding and university disability services. This research examined experiences of disabled undergraduate students in academic and extra-curricular areas of student life and experience of university disability support. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 undergraduate students. Thematic analysis identified four main themes: symptoms impacting on university life, academic issues, extra-curricular activities and experience of university support. Extensive and varied challenges were experienced in relation to all areas of student life. Some disabled students felt well supported but others felt much more support was needed. Some students had limited or no engagement in extra-curricular activities. Some progress appears to have been made in the last twenty years in supporting disabled undergraduate students but more support is needed. Disability support should be extended beyond academic work to include extra-curricular activities.