Return to Campus

As we continue to plan and prepare for the return to campus this fall, we want to provide an update to our Continuing Education participants regarding what to expect. First and foremost, we are committed to preserving the rich learning environment that is the hallmark of UNC Charlotte. Also, we want to ensure a successful and safe learning environment while minimizing any interruption to achieving your personal and career goals. The health and safety of the UNC Charlotte community are our top priorities. Decisions are informed by the recommendations of experts at the Center for Disease Control, the American College Health Association, OSHA, and local and state public health officials.

Check back often, as we update information on this page as we receive it.

Here is what you can expect this fall:

• Classes will return to a mostly in-person format this fall, and classrooms will be at full capacity with masks required for both students and faculty members.
• Employees will return to their offices, and all campus services will be offered in person.
• All buildings and facilities will return to regular capacity, including dining and recreational options.

However, to ensure recommended physical distancing in classrooms and health guidelines, there will be some changes. For example, items such as markers, post-it notes, and flip charts needed to complete activities will be provided in a single-use fashion. Also, classroom layouts and capacities will change. Here are some other things you need to know about our in-person classes and the return to campus:

Will face coverings/masks be required on campus this fall?

Everyone is expected to wear a face covering that covers their nose and mouth. Continuing Education will provide kits in the lobby at check-in. They will include a face mask along with other supplies you need for class. Please note: Instruction on this may continue to evolve as additional guidance is received from the UNC System and public health officials.

What safety changes will be in place in classrooms this fall?

• Classroom furniture will be rearranged to ensure physical distancing, wherever possible. We are also limiting in-person class sizes as directed by local health authorities and university guidelines. We highly recommend that you register early in order to secure your seat in class.
• In accordance with updated guidance from state and system officials, everyone is expected to wear a face covering that covers your nose and mouth whenever you are indoors on the University’s campus, including The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City, unless you are alone in a personal space. Masks should follow CDC guidelines. This requirement is regardless of the distance between you and others.
• Instructors will also be expected to wear face coverings even if a classroom layout permits six feet of separation from the first row of seated students.
• Due to restructuring of the tables in the classrooms and limited access to outlets, we highly recommend that you fully charge any electronic devices before class.

What cleaning practices will the University use in the fall?

Facilities Management and other environmental service partners will frequently clean and sanitize bathrooms, large meeting facilities, classrooms, and other general use spaces. They will also focus on high-touch services like elevator buttons and handrails. All campus cleaning units use EPA registered disinfectants.

Housekeeping staff will check and replenish soap dispensers, paper towels and hand sanitizing stations at least once a day and more frequently in public areas with high traffic.

What are my responsibilities as a Continuing Education participant for cleaning?

As a participant in a Continuing Education course, you are responsible for cleaning your high-touch devices, like cell phones and laptops, frequently while in the classroom. Also wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds throughout the day, especially after sneezing and/or coughing, before and after eating, after touching commonly used surfaces, and, of course, after using the restroom. Hand sanitizer can also be used if you are unable to wash your hands.

Will there be signage on campus to help me maintain physical distancing measures?

Yes, you might see “Stand Here” ground decals and directional signage throughout The Dubois Center to help guide physical distancing measures, including in places like elevators and stairways. There will also be signage with health guidelines and other safety reminders in place to help you, such as where face coverings are required.

How will the University stay in touch with me this fall about COVID-19?

In an emergency, the University will use NinerAlerts to reach you. This may include email, text messages, on-campus screen messages and social media. Your family members can sign up to receive NinerAlerts, too. More information is available here. Please note that Continuing Education participants will need to sign up for these alerts.

In non-emergency situations, we may use NinerNotices to keep you updated on information. You will automatically receive these emails. Family members can also sign up.