Coronavirus Health and Safety Plan

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.

In support of our commitment to the health and safety of all members of our community, Thomas Jefferson University has made the decision to join other universities across the region and the country in requiring that students receive a COVID-19 vaccine before returning to campus for the fall 2021 semester. Vaccinations, combined with the continued efforts of our students, faculty and staff to maintain a safe environment will help us keep our thriving academic community and athletic programs moving to our ‘next normal.’ Students should check their Jefferson.edu email for further information and instructions.

Per CDC guidance, we will continue our safety measures (social distancing, masking, etc) as our students, faculty, staff and the general public begin to be vaccinated. We will continue our conversations with infectious disease experts and will make policy decisions accordingly.

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.

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.

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.

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 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

Paul J. Guttman Library Hours:
Starting Wednesday, January 20, building hours will be:
Monday through Thursday: 8 am – 10 pm
Friday:  8 am – 4 pm
Saturday: 11 am – 5 pm
Sunday: Closed

Scott Memorial Library Hours:
Building hours remain 8am-10pm daily. For service desk hours please check the website, https://library.jefferson.edu

A full list of available study spaces can be seen here.

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.

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.

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. 

We have confirmed the location for this year’s ceremonies at The Mann Center for the Performing Arts. Due to current state and city COVID-19 restrictions, the in-person ceremonies will need to be limited to graduating students, a small number of faculty and staff and up to two guests per student. For more information please visit Jefferson.edu/commencement.