April 20, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2020 

Enrollment for fall semester underway at the University of Alaska

FAIRBANKS – Universities throughout the University of Alaska system will begin open registration today for the fall 2020 semester. Decisions about in-person and alternative delivery of courses will be made closer to the start of the semester in August as more information about the status of the COVID-19 health crisis becomes available.

“Based on input and advice from public health experts, the chancellors, and other university leaders, the University of Alaska’s system of universities and community campuses are currently enrolling for the fall semester,” said UA President Jim Johnsen. “The decision about the specific blend of distance-delivered and in-person courses will depend on expert assessment of state conditions at a date closer to the start of the fall semester. We encourage Alaskans to take advantage of our high-quality educational opportunities by enrolling now.”

While the health crisis seems to be flattening, and UA is doing everything in its power to keep students, staff and faculty safe, the university needs to be sure that COVID-19 conditions have significantly improved before providing more in-person courses, Johnsen said.

Early registration for current students at all three universities began earlier this month and the university is working on innovative ways to communicate with new and returning students including virtual campus tours, new financial aid packages, and incentives for those who have taken college courses but have not yet earned a degree.

Johnsen is encouraging Alaskans to look to the university for their educational needs. “Our people are our greatest asset,” he said. “Our nurses, researchers, economists and faculty are contributing to the needs of the state during this crisis, and I believe demonstrating that we are a critical partner in meeting the state’s needs and leading Alaska forward.”

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For more information, contact Roberta Graham, associate vice president of public affairs at 907-360-2416 (cell).