Dean Jeff Runner sent an email message to students earlier this month with a few updates about the 2021–22 academic year. All classes and educational experiences for undergraduate and graduate students in AS&E are expected to be held on campus, assuming health and safety guidelines are met. Specific plans and policies for instruction, activities, and operations for the upcoming academic year will be updated regularly over the next two months. These will be informed by and subject to change based on information from the University’s medical experts, the current state of COVID-19 on campus, any additional state and federal guidelines, as well as the commitment to the University community’s health and safety.
Course instruction
The College looks forward to welcoming all students on campus in August for a semester of in-person instruction, and the most recent health guidance allows for normal density in classrooms and residence halls.
Virtual instruction options will be available only for students with the following special circumstances:
- International students who face visa issues that create delays in their ability to enter the United States (fall international arrivals), or
- Students with disabilities who may be requesting accommodations: contact Disability Resources.
In case the situation changes drastically, the University reserves the right to change the mode of instruction for any course to online or hybrid delivery whenever deemed necessary or pedagogically appropriate.
Vaccinations
The University encourages students, faculty, and staff to get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are able.
All students who plan to enroll and be on campus for the 2021–22 academic year are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by August 1. If it’s not possible for you to be vaccinated by August 1, the University will make all efforts to provide the vaccine to you upon your arrival to campus. This FAQ includes details about the vaccination requirement, including a list of vaccines that are currently accepted to meet the requirement.
Upload your proof of vaccination to the UHSConnect Portal (find instructions here). If you are vaccinated, please upload this proof now; if UHS does not have this proof, students will face challenges in enrolling in classes, moving into residence halls, and accessing other campus activities.
Unvaccinated students who have been approved for an official exemption for medical or religious reasons will need to continue to follow masking guidelines when on campus.
New student orientation
An in-person orientation experience will be held for new undergraduate students and continuing second-year students, subject to health and safety restrictions. Programs are scheduled for late August, just prior to the start of classes which begin on Wednesday, August 25. New international students delayed because of visa and travel issues may arrive through November 7. See the international page for more information and the late arrival form.
Campus activities and engagement
Wilson Commons Student Activities expects to be able to bring back all of the Rochester Traditions in person. Planning is underway by student organizations, athletics, and many other areas on campus for more in-person opportunities for the fall semester.
