Academics and Research
The 2020-21 academic calendar has been modified to lessen the impact of COVID-19 on our campuses.
- We have canceled our 2021 Winter Session and the spring 2021 semester will begin on Jan. 11, 2021.
- We have decided to cancel Spring Break, and instead, are implementing five Wellness Days where classes will not be held on:
- Thursday, February 18
- Friday, February 19
- Monday, March 22
- Tuesday, March 23
- Wednesday, April 21
- The last day of spring 2021 classes is scheduled for April 23, with final exams occurring April 26-30, 2021.
Course Delivery
Courses are being delivered in four modes, which together provide students opportunities to engage directly with faculty and peers while allowing flexibility to accommodate the needs of those who may be impacted by COVID-19. The combination of these delivery modes also allow us to practice physical distancing in all of our classrooms. Physical distancing is central to the safety of students, faculty and staff.
Any student who opts to do 100 percent remote classes for health reasons is able to participate in the classes through various means. We are committed to providing you a full University experience both in and outside the classroom that meets your specific needs.
Required In-Person (RP)
Courses contain elements that may not be completed or arranged remotely. These courses may still include regular virtual meetings as part of the course, but students are expected to be in class for all scheduled in-person meetings. Required In Person courses are primarily labs, studios, or classes that require the use of specialized equipment or spaces.
Please note: If you sign up for a RP course, you need to live within commuting distance. No arrangements will be made by faculty for students to participate remotely.
In-Person/Hybrid (P)
These courses blend in-person and online elements. For example, a faculty member might give a virtual lecture to all students during one class period and then meet face-to-face with students in smaller groups during the rest of the week.
Please note: If you sign up for a P course and you cannot participate in any in-person elements, you will be emailed a form after you are registered to indicate that you plan to participate remotely.
Remote
Remote courses meet online according to a regular schedule, when faculty engage directly with students. Students in remote classes have a high level of real-time interaction with their instructor and fellow students during scheduled class times. With remote classes, you always meet virtually.
Online
Online courses do not typically meet on specific days and times, which allows for more flexibility since students can complete their coursework at their preferred time as long as assignment deadlines are met. Faculty still engage in robust interactions with their students throughout the course. Only courses specifically designed and approved for online delivery are being offered in this mode.
Understanding Your Course Instruction Options
If you do not feel comfortable with attending class in person, it is important that you learn more about the different instruction modes and how to ensure your class schedule meets your needs.
Classroom and Physical Space Protocols
- Classrooms and other learning spaces have been reviewed and redesigned to conform with CDC guidelines for physical distancing. Seating arrangements (chairs, desks, tables) have been labeled or removed.
- Classroom technology has been enhanced to allow for virtual and in-person learning.
- Buildings have marked entrances and exits for one-way traffic patterns that must be followed.
- Common spaces in classroom buildings have adjusted capacities to ensure physical distancing.
- Extra cleaning and disinfection is ongoing throughout all buildings on campus.
