Neurodiversity

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a term coined in the 1990s that describes variation in human brain functions relating to sociability, learning, attention, and mood. The term challenges pathologising characterisations of neurodevelopmental variance with difference instead simply considered a naturally occurring variation. Neurodiversity encompasses variations such as Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD).

The UCD EDI Neurodiversity Working Group was established in 2021 to better understand our campus climate in relation to neurodiversity, and to make recommendations that help make UCD a neurodiversity friendly environment for all in which to study and work. Making UCD a Neurodiversity Friendly Research Report was launched 18th April 2024. A copy of the report is available at the bottom of this webpage.

Supports for UCD Employees

UCD reasonable accommodation process (employees)
Assistive Technology and further information (employees)
UCD Neurodiversity Staff Network (NDSN) is an informal forum for neurodivergent staff and staff with an interest in neurodiversity. It offers peer support and promotes active contribution to relevant university goals and policies. Working groups within the network focus on specific sub-communities and initiatives, such as the parents of neurodiverse children group. To find out more, visit: (opens in a new window)UCD NDSN Workvivo or alternatively, sign-up via the form: (opens in a new window)Join NDSN

Supports for UCD Students

UCD Neurodiversity Supports - Access and Lifelong Learning (students)
Contact: Email: (opens in a new window)(opens in a new window)disability@ucd.ie
Drop-in hours for students: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and on Tuesday from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. during teaching term if you would like to meet a member of our team.
UCD Student Advisers (Neurodiversity Supports page includes supports from UCD Access and Lifelong Learning, tips and resources and information about a student-led Neurodiversity Collective)