Main Content
Why Accessibility Matters
Web accessibility ensures that all users — including those with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive disabilities — can access and interact with our content. At Missouri S&T, accessible content isn't just a best practice; it's a legal requirement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the United States has some type of disability. When we create accessible content, we reach more people and provide a better experience for everyone.
For campus-specific policies, training, and support, visit the Missouri S&T Digital Accessibility site.
Quick Checklist for Content Creators
- Images have meaningful alt text (or left blank if image is decorative)
- Headings follow a logical order (H1, H2, H3 — no skipping levels)
- Link text describes the destination, not "click here"
- Color contrast meets minimum ratios (4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text)
- Videos have captions or transcripts
- Tables include header rows and are used for data, not layout
- Documents (PDFs, Word files) are structured with headings and alt text
Writing Accessible Content in T4
When creating content using Missouri S&T's content types, keep these practices in mind:
- Alt text for images — Every non-decorative photo requires meaningful alt text. Describe what the image shows and why it matters in context.
- Descriptive action links — Content types like Topic Row, Card Link, and Visual CTA include action links. Use specific language that tells the user what they'll find — "View drop-in tutoring schedule" instead of "Learn more" or "Click here."
- Heading hierarchy — Content types stack on a page. Make sure the heading levels flow logically from top to bottom without skipping levels.
- Character limits support scannability — Following the established character limits for each content type helps keep content concise and easier to process for all users, including those using assistive technology.