Starting the Spring Semester as Planned

NC State reopened Jan. 4 following winter break, and the spring 2021 semester is proceeding as planned. Facilities including University Libraries, Talley Student Union and the Wellness and Recreation Center are open. Students in University Housing begin moving into their single-occupancy rooms Jan. 16. Online, in-person and hybrid classes begin Jan. 19.

The university has implemented many proactive measures to help keep our classrooms, residence halls and other facilities safe and the Wolfpack community healthy.

Return-to-Campus Testing

NC State requires proof of a COVID-19 PCR (nasal swab) test for students returning to live or work on campus, students living within a 1-mile radius off campus and designated faculty and staff in forward-facing positions. Earlier this month, we began testing at no cost for students, faculty and staff.

Since Jan. 2, we have already performed more than 6,000 tests on campus with a positivity rate of 2%-3%. Students, faculty and staff can also submit test results from other providers.

Click here for more information about return-to-campus testing.

Ongoing Surveillance Testing

Throughout the spring semester, NC State will require weekly surveillance testing for the following groups:

• All students living in residence halls and in Greek Village.
• All students enrolled in face-to-face classes.
• Designated employees, including critical, essential and research employees, as well as faculty, teaching assistants and graduate assistants in face-to-face instruction roles.

If you fall into one of these categories, you will receive more information about surveillance testing from the university.

Regular testing for other students, faculty and staff who come to campus is strongly encouraged. NC State will provide no-cost testing on campus throughout the semester. Additional information is forthcoming.

On-Campus Face Covering Requirements

To simplify regulations and best protect our Pack, face coverings are now required everywhere on campus, inside and outside, even when you are alone, unless:

• You are alone in a private, enclosed residence room, apartment or office with the door closed.
• You are actively eating or drinking while maintaining physical distancing.

We will continue to share reminders about our community standards throughout the semester. We expect all students, faculty and staff to follow these standards and all NC State policies.

Quarantine and Isolation

As previously communicated, we’ve expanded NC State’s isolation and quarantine processes to help prevent and control the potential transmission of the virus while ensuring students receive quality care.

We have designated 285 isolation and quarantine rooms for students living in on-campus housing with single entry, private bathroom, separate HVAC and amenities for reheating or storing food. University staff work with students on individual plans for quarantine and isolation and provide regular check-ins throughout the process. Click here for more information.

Working for a Safe, Successful Semester

We continue working for a safe and successful semester for students, faculty and staff at NC State. We will also continue working with state and county health officials, and the UNC System, to monitor the pandemic, and we are prepared to make adjustments as necessary to best keep the community safe and keep our university moving forward.

Whether on campus or online many miles away, I wish you all a safe, healthy and successful semester. Thank you for your dedication to NC State and to protecting the Pack.

Continue to refer to the Protect the Pack site for updates.

Randy Woodson
Chancellor