A Safe Return to Campus in September 2021
Guidance for Students
Following an announcement by Minister Simon Harris TD in June about a return to college campuses nationwide in September, TU Dublin is developing a plan to welcome students back safely when classes resume from Monday, 20 September.
What can Returning Students expect?
Subject to public health guidelines, TU Dublin is preparing to welcome returning students back to campus for at least 60% of their timetable, with classes beginning on Monday, 20 September 2021. Delivery of workshops, labs, studios, project work, seminars and smaller teaching groups will be prioritised. Remote lectures will undoubtedly be a feature next year, but as the year progresses, we also hope to see larger class groups returning for lectures where facilities permit. However, as recent experience has demonstrated, we know we all need to be prepared for modifications if public health guidelines change.
Students who, for medical reasons, cannot attend lectures in person should make their situation known to their Programme Lead.
While it will not be required for access to learning spaces on campus at TU Dublin, it is important to note that testing or proof of vaccination may be required for some activities associated with your studies, such as ERASMUS, exchange, placement, site visits etc.
What’s planned for First-Year Students?
CAO results will be later than usual this year, so the academic semester for first-year students will commence Monday, 27 September, with some course orientations taking place the week before. Detailed schedules are available here. Every effort will be made to prioritise on-campus learning for first-year students to help them settle into their programme and to TU Dublin.
Will Postgraduate and Part-Time Students be back on campus?
Postgraduate and part-time students can expect to be on campus for workshops, labs, project groups, and many of your classes, depending on your programme of study. Teaching will resume from Monday, 20 September 2021.
Will Social and Sporting activities resume?
This year, students will have more opportunities to participate in societies, sport and social activities, meet new people, and try new hobbies outside of their studies. Of course, we will be adhering to the prevailing public health guidelines, but there will be lots to choose from, including fitness classes, film screenings, quizzes, gaming tournaments and volunteering events. We are also planning for outdoor and indoor sports facilities to be fully operational with some modifications.
Will dining facilities be open on campus?
Canteens, coffee shops and dining areas will open, with capacity in line with public health guidelines, although some may only offer takeaway for the first couple of weeks.
Will there be access to Libraries?
All of our libraries will be open, with bookable study spaces and PCs to adhere to public health guidelines. For more information, see our Starting Your Studies or Continuing Your Studies webpages.
Can I access Student Supports and Services in person?
The full range of student information and support services will be available, including our Student Medical Centres, Counselling Services, Disability Support Services, Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy, Maths Learning Centre, Academic Writing Centre, Careers Development Centre, and our general Student Information Desks.
Does TU Dublin have student accommodation?
While we don’t have on-campus accommodation, we have negotiated preferential rates for TU Dublin students with third-party providers. We also have a database of accommodation including homestays, so if you’re looking for a place to stay this year, visit our accommodation webpage to find more information.
Will TU Dublin continue to implement COVID-19 precautions on campus?
The vast majority of adults are now fully vaccinated; however, COVID-19 will remain a threat to public health for quite some time. TU Dublin will continue to take precautions to keep staff and students safe, and students will be expected to play their part. This will include:
- Wear an effective face-covering on campus – not a visor or face shield
- Sanitise hands on arrival and wash hands frequently while on campus
- Maintain physical distancing and avoid congregating in groups, unless it is for an organised and controlled event
- Remember to cover coughs and sneezes
- Where possible open windows and doors
- Download the COVID Tracker
Here is a quick reference guide about what to do if you become unwell with possible COVID-19 symptoms on campus, and you can read more about our COVID-19 measures here.
Updated Thursday, 9 September 2021.