Yukon University has provided more details to new, prospective and returning credit program students about the fall semester, and has created a new student support initiative, Connect2YukonU.

In a letter posted online and emailed Monday to students from Dr. Janet Welch, vice-president Academic and Student Services, the university reiterated that teaching and learning for the fall semester will take place primarily online.

There are some exceptions for science and nursing labs, trades program shop classes and Continuing Studies courses that require in-person instruction.

The letter also states that, as of Sept. 1, YukonU campuses across the territory will be open to students and employees, although access will be restricted, and campuses will remain closed to the general public.

“Online classes and restricted campus access are necessary to ensure the health and safety of our students and employees at this time,” said Welch.

“We will return to in-person classes as soon as it is safe to do so. In the meantime, we are grateful for everyone’s patience and understanding.

“We are committed to ensuring students can continue their planned studies, and we’re offering academic and personal support, so every student can be successful,” added Welch.

Where possible, practicum placements and field schools will take place, although some have been postponed until the winter semester.

At Ayamdigut campus in Whitehorse, computer labs and individual study spaces will be available to students who do not have access to technology or quiet space at home.

Students who access campuses in communities beyond Whitehorse are advised to check the campus webpage for hours of service.

Registered students and employees accessing campus will need to declare that they are symptom-free, and have not come in contact with anyone who has travelled beyond the Yukon/B.C. bubble.

They must also sign a form that commits them to following the six steps for staying safe under COVID-19 conditions.

For purposes of contact tracing, staff and students will be asked to register with security staff each day they are on campus.

The library, within the Innovation Commons, will be open to complement online access to thousands of resources, although access to physical texts will be restricted.

Students can browse the web catalogue, request books and then either collect them from the Innovation Commons Helpdesk or have them mailed if they live outside Whitehorse. Textbooks are available at the campus store.

The Kinnikinnick Kaff and Hilltop Bistro will remain closed until further notice.

The campus store will be open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with snacks, baked goods and merchandise.

All academic and personal student supports continue to be available. Students can get support through Zoom sessions, phone, text and in-person.

The new Connect2YukonU service brings together staff from Admissions, Student Services and the Academic Support Centre.

The team can provide immediate responses to concerns, research more complex questions, and connect students to additional supports. This service is available during regular business hours and some evenings through the summer.

Students with program- or course-specific questions can still connect directly with their program areas.

Online registration was launched in April.

It allows students to check course availability, select courses and register from home. The portal lists pre- and co-requisite courses, schedule conflicts and tuition totals.

When the process is complete, students can print their class schedule.

For all information relating to the YukonU COVID-19 response and fall semester plans, visit YukonU.ca/covid-19.

Yukon University graduated from Yukon College status in May.

It offers more thn 50 degree, diploma, certificate and trades programs.

Learners can access opportunities without needing to leave home, and those from across Canada and internationally are invited to deepen their understanding of the rapidly changing circumpolar world.

The 13 campuses are located on the traditional territories of the 14 Yukon First Nations.