Capital University students will begin the fall semester completely online to help limit the spread of the coronavirus.
A statement from Capital president Dave Kaufman says classes will start August 24, as previously scheduled, but all courses will be delivered remotely. In-person classes will resume no earlier than September 21.
"I realize this decision has a significant impact on your individual planning, and I greatly appreciate your patience and understanding," the statement says. "We hoped the pandemic would be in significant decline before fall classes were scheduled to begin. Unfortunately, that is not the case, as the virus trends are not yet favorable in the county or across the state of Ohio."
The statement says Capital plans a phased move-in for students living in dorms beginning September 11. Students who rely on the university's housing as their primary residence can remain on campus.
Capital joins Miami University is deciding to start the fall semester completely online. Ohio State University plans to bring students back to campus with a plan that relies heavily on testing and asking student to self-quarantine when possible.
A growing number colleges around the country, including Harvard and the California State University system, plan to offer only online course for the entire 2020-21 academic year.
Capital University and the Ohio Athletic Conference, which also include Otterbein University, have canceled the fall sports season.
