(Moorhead, MN) -- Minnesota State University Moorhead says it will return to in-person learning on campus for the 2021-22 academic year. The school made the announcement that 3/4 of the college's classes will be on-site, rather than online.
UNIVERSITY PRESS STATEMENT
Most MSUM classes will be in-person this fall, said Arrick Jackson, MSUM’s Vice President of Academic Affairs.
“We know our students are ready to be back in the classroom with face-to-face classes,” Jackson said. “We have created a class schedule designed to meet the many needs of our students. I believe this will allow our students to learn according to their learning style and give them more flexibility to engage in many extracurricular activities, including student clubs and organizations.”
Three-quarters of MSUM’s Fall courses will be in-person or have a face-to-face component. About 25% will be fully online. MSUM learned through the pandemic that students want to creatively arrange their classes in ways that fit their learning style, schedule and life.
“In-person classes are a huge part of what makes MSUM special,” said Zac Spohn, a junior business administration and political science major from Sauk Rapids, Minn. He’s also the Student Affairs Committee Chair on MSUM’s Student Senate. “Connecting with faculty members and peers in the classroom is what makes my learning experience so enriching.”
Many student services and activities will continue to be available in-person or virtually. For example, counseling appointments will be offered via telehealth or in-person. Student organizations may meet in-person but are also encouraged to use virtual technology to provide greater access and student participation.
“Attending events either in-person or virtually shortens opportunity gaps while engaging as many students as possible in student life,” Spohn said.
While MSUM plans to resume its standard fall course delivery, the university will also vigilantly monitor campus and community COVID-19 indicators and thresholds. Consultation with campus groups, the Minnesota Department of Health, and Clay County Public Health will continue for the foreseeable future.
“We look forward to welcoming students back on campus, and we’re committed to giving students the best university experience we can in a safe learning environment while also protecting our campus and the community,” Jackson said.