As COVID-19 vaccinations increase and infections in the community decrease, the University of Utah will provide an in-person experience for every student who wants one in the fall.

The University Registrar’s office is working with colleges and departments on the logistics of fall scheduling. Classes will begin on Aug. 23. As always, the university will continue to offer online course options to accommodate student needs, preferences and schedules.

University administrators share the optimism of state leaders that COVID-19 vaccinations will be largely completed by the fall. The university will continue to follow public health guidance from the Salt Lake County and State Health departments. Students and faculty who for health reasons need to continue with online and distance-learning options will be able to do so.

“Our university has been transformed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and students and faculty have shown incredible patience and adaptability,” University Registrar Tim Ebner said. “We’re very hopeful that fall semester can be much closer to what higher education was before the coronavirus.”

In addition to prioritizing in-person classes—including labs, practicums and studios—the university will support traditional student club and on-campus activities in the fall as long as they are in accordance with the public health and safety guidelines.

“The details and logistics of how we shape the fall student experience will be a collaborative effort, working with faculty, staff, students and other stakeholders.” said Dan Reed, senior vice president for Academic Affairs.