The Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 was a landmark achievement for everyone from those suffering from discrimination in the workplace due to mental or physical disabilities to those struggling with equal access within the realm of higher education at the time.As a result of the law, many college campuses began to rethink their facilities, programs and curriculums in an effort to begin the slow process of better accommodating students with learning disabilities and special needs.

Collegiate instruction is done orally, and traditionally, students with hearing impairments have struggled to obtain a quality education.

Public schools are now required to offer the use of interpreters, closed captioning videos, and any other services necessary to provide hearing impaired students with a quality education.

Another groundbreaking moment came in 1990, with the American Disability Act (ADA).

The services usually consist of programs that encourage accessibility, advocacy and opportunity for the academic success of all students needing assistance.

Many services provided by these schools are done so free of charge and are offered through the generous work of volunteers.