Statement of Support for UT Austin Graduate Student Families
The Graduate School recognizes that life events such as becoming a parent can interrupt a student's academic career. The Graduate School is committed to supporting our students. It is our commitment to work with sensitivity and imagination to ensure that all available arrangements are explored by advisers, academic staff and departmental leaders.
Although it is ultimately the student's responsibility to notify their department in a timely manner of their current family or medical situation, there are a number of resources, policies and staff at the University to assist during the time of childbirth or a family emergency.
Title IX Accommodations for Those Pregnant, Nursing and Parenting
Pregnant, nursing and parenting students are eligible for accommodations through the Title IX Office that support equal access to education and work and prevent discrimination. Students may reach out to the Title IX Office for help with accommodations to make up missed classes, complete missed coursework, keep them safe in the classroom, apply for leaves of absence, receive priority registration and other related support.
Workplace Accommodations for Pregnant Employees
The University provides reasonable accommodations to employees experiencing limitations associated with pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA). While many accommodations under the PWFA can be managed at the departmental level, Institutional Accessibility and Accommodation facilitates the process when situations are more complex. Documentation from an individual’s healthcare provider is necessary in these situations to assess the limitations associated with one’s condition(s) and what accommodations are appropriate. Institutional Accessibility and Accommodation can be contacted via email at ada@austin.utexas.edu. More information about the PWFA accommodation process is here.
College and Schools' Accommodation Policies
Schools in the Community
Childcare
There are many available respected childcare options in Austin, and choosing between them can be daunting. These resources will provide assistance in finding one that meets your needs.
UT Austin Child Development Center
As a graduate student, you are eligible to send your child to The University of Texas at Austin Child Development Center, which offers a developmental early childhood program for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.
HealthPoint Work / Life Balance Services
HealthPoint Work/Life Services has partnered with LifeCare to provide UT Austin benefits-eligible employees and their family members access to an array of work-life resource and referral services, including childcare options and parenting resources.
Child Care Assistance
Need child care assistance? Workforce Solutions Capital Area Child Care Services provides child care scholarships to eligible low-to moderate-income families in Travis County.