Plans for Fall 2021 Webinars
Watch the latest SOU webinars on current developments, guidance and policy changes regarding the current pandemic surge and our plans for fall term.
Fall term Q&A
Q: Who will be allowed to attend in-person classes on campus?
A: Students who are vaccinated will be able to attend in-person classes after we return to the on-campus experience.
Students who have an approved exemption or have an approved accommodation through the Dean of Students Office, may attend in person but may also have additional restrictions (e.g. face coverings, social distancing, testing) applied to their participation in SOU classes and/or activities.
Students who do not have an approved accommodation or exemption will not be able to participate in campus classes or activities that are in-person. These students should work with their Student Success Coordinator or faculty advisor to find appropriate online or remote options.
Q: Will face coverings be required?
A: We will require face coverings in all public indoor and outdoor spaces, in accordance with the orders of Governor Brown.
Q: I’m enrolled in a course that requires in-person instruction (such as science labs, performance courses, and field experiences). Will these also start remotely?
A: Please refer to the class schedule to see how your course will be delivered. Classes such as labs, performance courses, and field experiences may still begin Sept. 22 in-person, much as they did this past year. You may also connect with the faculty member teaching the course for additional information.
Q: Since I may not be on campus to access student services until Oct. 11, will I still have to pay all of the student fees?
A: Students will receive a 5% refund on some student fees. A refund will be issued automatically toward the middle of October.
Q: Will I be able to attend an athletic event or a performance while classes are being delivered remotely?
A: SOU’s buildings, small group events/meetings, and athletic events will remain open to those who can provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours of when the event begins.
Q: When will I be allowed to move into University Housing?
A: Move-in to student housing will proceed as already planned. Housing officials will soon provide information that will detail the process you need to complete in order to verify your vaccination status and adjust your move-in date, if necessary.
Safety Protocols
SOU will continue to prioritize public health and safety, following these principles:
- Require COVID-19 vaccinations for all students and employees, other than those who apply for exemptions for medical or religious reasons
- Require indoor and outdoor face coverings in all public settings, in accordance with directives from the governor
- Abide by any physical distancing guidelines currently recommended by the CDC and OHA
- Reduced room density, if needed
- Enhanced cleaning
- Continued use of technology for some meetings and classes
- Continued public health messaging, emphasizing personal responsibility and collective well-being