Spring 2021 Academic Calendar
As originally scheduled, spring semester classes will begin January 19, 2021 and the last day of classes will be May 3, 2021.
IUP will not have the traditional weeklong spring break. Instead, the spring 2021 academic calendar includes seven non-class days to allow for several short breaks. These non-class days are:
- Thursday, Feb. 25
- Friday, February 26
- Saturday, March 13
- Sunday, March 14
- Monday, April 5
- Tuesday, April 6
- Wednesday, April 21
The spring 2021 semester follows the same academic operating plan as the fall 2020 semester, which was designed to reduce transmission of the virus by reducing the number of people on campus, balancing hybrid coursework and distance learning.
Pass/Fail Deadline Extension
For the spring 2021 semester only, the Pass/Fail deadline has been extended from March 1 to May 7.
This is the only policy modification. All other exclusions and requirements within the policy are still valid. The Pass/Fail policy can be viewed in the undergraduate catalog and on the Registrar’s Office website.
If you are interested in making a pass/fail request for a class that meets the guidelines of the policy, please discuss your options and potential outcomes of the decision with your advisor.
Class Delivery
Please see the Classroom Safety section for specifics on class delivery and safety precautions. Specific guidance is also available for students
with health concerns.
You can find more information about which classes are operating with face-to-face delivery on the Programs with Face-to-Face Instruction page.
Textbooks
The IUP Co-op Store provides textbooks through counter service. You can place your orders on the store's website and stop in for pickup or have the orders shipped. Walk-in business has resumed, but online ordering is strongly encouraged. The store also has options for using Financial Aid refunds towards textbook purchases. Please check your IUP billing statement to see if you have a refund before choosing this option.
International Students
The Office of International Education continues to support international students and scholars at IUP, and will continue to offer programming to the community
to build awareness about other cultures. Please check the office’s Events Calendar for activities and programming opportunities.
Clock-Hour Programs (Culinary, Police Academy, EMT, and Paramedic Training)
Some clock-hour programs, such as those offered by the Academy of Culinary Arts and the Criminal Justice Training Center, require face-to-face learning. Students in clock-hour programs will receive specific instructions from their program directors.
Criminal Justice Training Center (Police Academy)
If you have any questions, contact program coordinator Marcia Cole at 724-357-3987 or director Dennis Marsili at 724-357-3988.
Find information about virtual technology support, help with online instruction, computer and internet access on campus, and Zoom technology, including meeting and classroom etiquette, security, and more.
Academic and Other Help
Advising Adjustments
Department offices should limit in-person contact outside the classroom. Advising and office hours will take place virtually during the spring 2021 semester.
This one-stop resource center for students offers both live responses and the opportunity to submit questions via email, with responses coming within 24 hours.
IUP Guides for First-Year Students
Adjusting to university life is challenging, even in the best of circumstances. To help first-year students, we will match you with a specially trained IUP employee to serve as a guide for your time at IUP. Our Student Support and Engagement Team in the
Student Affairs Division developed this new program to make sure you don’t get lost in your new environment.
Tutoring
Tutoring and other assistance will be offered remotely to the fullest extent possible.
IUP Libraries
The IUP Libraries, which will be set up to promote social distancing, will open with modified hours during the spring 2021 semester. Students will need to request books at the front desk. Hours of operation for specific services and exceptions to regular hours are posted on the Libraries' site.
Computer Labs
Computer labs will be available to all IUP students, as long as they follow guidelines for face coverings and social distancing. Students may be required to make arrangements in advance to use a computer lab.
International Students: Virtual SkillZone
SkillZone continues to offer academic and social support for international students and scholars through Zoom tutoring. You can learn more and make an appointment to work with a tutor on the SkillZone website.
Tips and Resources for Online Learning
The Academic Success Center has compiled information for students, including tips on online instruction and note-taking, overcoming procrastination, and the importance of self-care stress management.
Writing Center
Students can receive online tutoring through the Kathleen Jones White Writing Center. Appointments take place in 45-minute sessions. You can choose from using an audio/video session, or, if your internet access is limited, you can upload your paper and
receive feedback from a tutor. Schedule a tutorial session online or visit the Jones White Writing Center site to find contact information.
Students with Disabilities
The Department for Disability Access and Advising can assist students with disabilities in connecting with their professors to ensure the best learning experience possible. Hours of operation are posted on the Status of Buildings, Facilities, and Services
page.
Instructors will receive a list of students who need accommodations for their classes from the Department for Disability Access and Advising. On the department's website,
you can find information on the following topics:
- Accessibility and accommodations during the coronavirus pandemic
- Tips for managing at-home and remote learning