Coronavirus Health and Safety Plan
Thomas Jefferson University has assembled a cross disciplinary team to develop a comprehensive Health and Safety Plan (previously called the Relaunch Guide) for faculty, staff and students that details how we will continue to safely move Jefferson education forward.
Health and Safety Plan
The Health and Safety Plan provides a top-level summary of the health and safety measures the University is taking to provide our campus communities with a safe learning, living and working environment and includes information about:
- COVID-19 Screening, Testing & Case Management
- Operations Planning
- Social Distancing
- Reimagined Classrooms
- Remote Work Considerations
- Housing
- Athletics, and more.
Spring 2021 FAQs
As we continue to navigate our “next normal” here are the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions. For questions relating specifically to your college or program, please reach directly out to your program director or Dean. Please refer to the Academic Relaunch Guide, available on BannerWeb, for the University’s comprehensive re-opening plans, protocols and procedures. These FAQs will be updated as needed and pertinent information will be communicated with students via their Jefferson.edu email.
When does Spring Semester Begin?
All East Falls programs (with the exception of Athletic Training) will start the spring 2021 semester on January 20, one week later than originally scheduled. This necessitates the cancellation of spring break in 2021. All other programs will also follow this schedule, unless there are noted constraints, in which case they will remain on their original schedule. Students with additional questions should reach out to their Program Director directly.
Where can I find Thomas Jefferson University’s COVID-19 Dashboard
The COVID-19 Dashboard, which contains information on Persons Under Investigation, Daily Active Cases and total cumulative case counts for East Falls and Center City campuses can be found here.
Is there going to be an option for virtual spring semester for those that deem campus life unsafe?
Yes, for some majors but not all. Students in majors that require clinical, lab, studio, simulation, or research activities may be required to report in-person in order to progress to graduation.
When will visitors be allowed in the residence halls and on campus?
Until social distancing restrictions are lifted, no visitors will be allowed in residence halls or on campus. Additionally, in person meetings and events are prohibited unless reviewed and approved by your dean or immediate supervisor. Please refer to the Academic Relaunch Guide for additional information.
Am I able to get out of my housing contract for the Spring semester if my classes remain online?
Yes, students who wish to waive housing for Spring 2021 may do so. Additional information will be sent from the Office of Residential Life in the coming days.
Are there travel restrictions in place for the Spring Semester?
Yes, the university has recently revised its travel policy for both faculty and staff. The policy is located on MyJeffHub (for employees) as well as Jefferson.edu/coronavirus.
If I’m scheduled to attend classes, labs or studios in person in the Spring Semester, how and when will I receive my mask?
If you haven’t already, you will receive your mask from your college during your first in-person experience. Masks may also be distributed through residence halls or at stations set up throughout campus. Please note that gator masks and bandanas are not permitted. Masks must have ear loops or tie behind the head.
It is critical for all members of the University community to adhere to campus safety guidelines by:
- Wearing a mask everywhere on campus and maintaining proper social distancing
- Washing your hands frequently or using one of the sanitizing stations located throughout campus
- Avoiding touching your face and staying home if you feel ill Report any signs and symptoms, and or possible exposure to Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) at 215-955-6835 or Student Health Services at 215-951-0618
- Presenting your Jefferson ID when entering campus buildings (required)
- In addition, we suggest that students on the East Falls campus use the interior paths, but when walking on public sidewalks, to continue to wear masks and adhere to physical distancing protocols
What are the Library’s Hours?
Guttman Library Hours:
Beginning 11/30 hours will be Monday-Friday 8am-4pm
Scott Memorial Library Hours:
Building hours remain 8am-11pm daily. For service desk hours please check the website, https://library.jefferson.edu
What is the protocol for students who suspect they may have COVID-19?
The procedure for students who suspect they have COVID-19 is located in the Relaunch Guide (available by logging on to BannerWeb). Students who are feeling ill should contact JOHN (Center City): 215-955-6835 or Student Health (East Falls): 215-951-0168. Students can also access JeffConnect (Jefferson’s telehealth platform) free of charge if they are feeling ill. Visit Jefferson.edu/jeffconnect for more details.
If I have a question about any policies and procedures put in place during the COVID-19 Crisis who can I contact?
On East Falls campus students can call the Dean of Students Office at 215-951-2740 or TJU_EF_StudentLife@jefferson.edu. Center City students should reach out to the Office of Student Life and Engagement at StudentLife@jefferson.edu. 215-503-7743.
Will we have athletics during the Spring Semester?
With its first priority being the safety and well-being of its student-athletes and staff, Thomas Jefferson University has made the difficult decision to not compete in the sports of men's basketball, women's basketball, and women's volleyball during the 2020-21 academic year. The University will continue to evaluate its plan to compete in outdoor sports during the spring semester, including baseball, men's and women's cross country, men's and women's golf, women's lacrosse, women's rowing, men's and women's soccer, softball, men's and women's tennis, and men's and women's track & field. More information about athletics can be found at jeffersonrams.com.