What you need to know about heading back to McMaster this fall

After a summer of mostly remote" learning at McMaster University, a more traditional university experience is on the horizon.

As the province begins to reopen and more Ontarians are vaccinated, the university is moving to a hybrid model in the fall.

What we are planning is to have some combination of virtual learning and in-class experiences that are meaningful," provost Susan Tighe said in a video update. And as we can open up, we will open up more."

Tighe said the university will be following public health guidelines closely, and that COVID-19 protocols, such as masking and physical distancing, will remain in place.

What that actually means for a lot of our bigger classes, (is) that we'll hold those bigger classes virtually or we'll try to do a combination where we have some students online and some students in the classroom."

Between September and June, the university reported a total of 47 cases of the virus. The most recent case was reported on June 23.

Will classes be in person or online?

On its website, McMaster University says that the fall semester will provide as many safe and meaningful in-person experiences for students as possible," including expanded opportunities for small-group learning across all faculties, but also in-person student life activities."

The class schedule indicated the learning model - in person, online, virtual or hybrid - for all classes. Students can expect classes designated as in person to have varying levels" of face-to-face instruction throughout the semester.

If you are not able to attend any in-person components, it is recommended that you register in another course that is offered virtually or online," the website reads.

Students who are unable to take a required in-person course can request consideration based upon extenuating circumstances."

The university's labs and other specialized facilities will be available in very limited cases." Instructors are encouraged to find alternate ways of delivering these programs.

Exams and other assessments will be remote for the fall semester, though instructors with in-person classes may use class time for evaluations.

McMaster's website indicates it is planning for a mostly in-person" winter semester.

Mohawk College, which is forecasting pre-pandemic enrolment levels in the fall, is anticipating about a third of its students will attend campuses for labs, skilled trades training and other programs to 2018-19 levels. The rest will remain online.

What COVID-19 measures will be in place?

Masking, distancing and screening will be in place for students, staff and visitors to campus. Campus libraries will be open for the fall term with capacity limits as determined by public health.

The university says it is working to improve ventilation, and that high standard filters are being installed in buildings where air recirculation exists."

Will libraries be open?

Campus libraries will be open for the fall term with capacity limits as determined by public health.

The university says it is currently developing additional study and gathering spaces, as well as outdoor seating, such as Adirondack chairs, picnic tables and benches for maximum utilization of green spaces on campus."

The bookstore and other university amenities are expected to be open in the fall, the university says.

Where can I eat on campus?

The university's food services will open their main locations starting in late August. La Piazza, which has everything from all-day breakfasts to burgers, will open Aug. 3 in the McMaster University Student Centre.

The remaining on-campus eateries will reopen in winter 2022.

Who is eligible for residence?

First-year students are eligible for residence during the 2021-22 school year. Though applications are now closed, students can join a wait list.

Residences will operated at 93 per cent capacity, reserving some rooms for self-isolation as required.

The university says it has a robust" safety plan, which includes physical distancing requirements, a strict no-guest policy" and restrictions on large gatherings. Masks must be worn in all common areas of residences, including hallways, elevators and common rooms.

Vaccinations are strongly encouraged but not required for those living in residence," the website reads.

What will campus life look like in the fall?

All McMaster Students' Union (MSU) clubs will remain online for the fall semester.

The university's orientation for incoming students from Sept. 1 to 8 will also be entirely virtual.

We know this isn't the way you wanted to start your time at Mac," the website reads. But we've got a ton of virtual fun stuff planned." The Welcome Week schedule and registration will be available some time in July.

The university's fitness centre, as well as outdoor fields, running track, trails and softball diamonds are expected to reopen in the fall.

Some outdoor intramural sports - soccer, spike ball, ultimate Frisbee, touch rugby and softball - are expected to be available to students in the fall.

McMaster says there is a plan to return to varsity sports in a modified fashion."

Are vaccines required to be on campus?

McMaster University's website says vaccines are the single most important thing" students and staff can do to ensure a safe environment on campus. However, the university has said it will not require vaccines for students returning to campus in the fall.

Mohawk and Ancaster's Redeemer University have also indicated they will encourage, but not require, vaccines for students and staff.

Kate McCullough is a Hamilton-based reporter covering education at The Spectator. Reach her via email: kmccullough@thespec.com