The university will require proof of vaccination (or exemption) before students step foot on campus for the fall semester.
The University of Denver is following in the footsteps of other private universities in the country to make campus safer this fall. On Tuesday, April 20, DU announced that all undergraduate and graduate students would be required to prove they received the COVID-19 vaccination or exemption before returning to campus for the fall 2021 semester.
In accordance with the guidance of health care experts, @UofDenver will require all undergraduate and graduate students living, learning or working on campus to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 before returning to campus for the fall 2021 term. Read more: https://t.co/uabk6mG97L
— University of Denver (@UofDenver) April 20, 2021
"We have made vaccination an urgent priority because we believe a fully vaccinated community is the best way to protect ourselves and each other," a statement released by DU on Tuesday read. "In addition, through widespread vaccination, DU can confidently loosen or remove restrictions that have impacted social and mental well-being. Community members can feel safer and more comfortable as we make an on-campus, vibrant return to 'normal' in the fall term."
The requirement only applies to students living, working, and studying on campus. Students working online and not visiting campus will not need to get the COVID-19 vaccination to attend classes this fall.
DU also announced it has partially vaccinated almost 80% of its campus faculty and staff. The university is hosting vaccination events while prioritizing its student population. It will have additional opportunities for students to get vaccines before the start of the fall term.
The University of Denver encourages all students to consult with their healthcare provider for guidance on the COVID-19 vaccine. The statement also said the university would consider exemptions for medical, religious, and personal reasons.
Read the full statement here.
How do you feel about universities requiring COVID vaccinations for their students? Share your thoughts in the comments.
