PITTSBURGH (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) - Following the lead of other universities in the state, both the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State will transition to online-only classes to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Citing the number of students who will be traveling over spring break, Pitt announced online classes will resume March 23 and that the following changes will be made:
- Replacing in-person instruction with online and alternative learning options at all five Pitt campuses.
- Requesting that students not return to University housing, if they have this option.
- Canceling all study abroad and study away programming for the spring and summer terms.
- Restricting all nonessential domestic and international university travel until further notice.
- Canceling or postponing all events that exceed 25 participants or that are considered nonessential. When possible, we will seek to replace in-person events with virtual engagements.
- Expanding work flexibility to allow remote work arrangements, when needed.
Pitt Athletics made a statement Wednesday information students that student-athletes will be allowed to continue "its practice and competition regimen as previously scheduled."
At Penn State, online classes will begin March 16 and run through April 3, with in-person classes scheduled to resume on April 6.
Faculty and staff will continue to be allowed on campus, but students at all campuses are "strongly discouraged from returning to campus, off-campus locations, and group dwellings (e.g., apartments and fraternities), and should return to, or remain at, home during this time period."
Duquesne says classes are canceled Monday and Tuesday March 16 and 17 and will resume online on March 18.
The online courses will continue through March 31 or longer, if they believe it is necessary.
The university will remain open but encourages "social distancing", a recommendation made by the CDC
None of the Universities has had any confirmed cases of COVID-19 but want to reduce the number of possible cases.
Pitt students can get more information here.
Penn State students can find their information here.
Duquesne students can visit here.
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