Muhlenberg College Academic Calendar: Adapting to New Realities

Muhlenberg College, like many institutions, has had to adapt to changing circumstances, especially those related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The college's academic calendar and operational plans have been adjusted to prioritize the health and safety of its community members while maintaining its educational mission.

Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

In response to the surge in cases across the country and increases in infection rates among the college-age population, Muhlenberg College made the decision to reduce the number of students on campus. This decision aimed to fully implement health and safety protocols effectively.

Fall Semester Plans

For the fall semester, the college planned to have first-year students and a limited number of approved upperclass students on campus. Each student was intended to have a single room and share a bathroom with only 2-3 other students. First-year students were expected to have primarily online courses with some in-person instruction and small group co-curricular activities. All upperclass students, whether on or off campus, were to take their courses remotely.

Tuition and Fees

Recognizing the challenging economic situation faced by many families, Muhlenberg College rolled back the previously announced tuition increase, keeping the rate the same as the previous academic year. All students in on-campus housing were charged the standard double room rate, even though all rooms were assigned as singles. The college ensured that students would not pay a premium for single rooms or for residential placements more expensive than their original preferences.

Financial Aid Adjustments

The Office of Financial Aid prepared financial aid offers reflecting students' fall housing status for the entire academic year, complying with federal and state financial aid regulations. Adjustments were planned for January if more students were able to return to campus for the Spring semester.

Read also: Muhlenberg College Details

Academic Calendar Details

The Fall semester and Winter term dates remained unchanged. The Spring semester was scheduled to begin on February 8 and run through May 14, without a break. Final exams were to be held on May 17-21. Due to the addition of the winter term, the Commencement ceremony was moved to Monday, May 24.

Key Dates

The following dates provide a glimpse into the academic calendar (note that specific years are not indicated as per instructions):

August:
- Application deadline for on-campus housing or campus access for upperclass students (August 5).
- Final approval for on-campus housing (August 11).
September:
October:

Read also: Applying to Muhlenberg: Requirements
November:
- Registration Appointments:
  - Seniors - Wed.
  - Juniors - Fri.
  - Sophomores - Tue.
  - First-Years - Thu.
December:
January:
- Martin Luther King. Jr.
February:
March:

Read also: Financial Aid Options
April:
- Registration Appointments:
  - Rising seniors - Wed.
  - Rising juniors - Fri.
  - Rising sophomores - Tue.
April/May:
- Spring final grades due, by Mon.

Resources for Students and Families

Muhlenberg College provided various resources to support students and families during these transitions.

Housing and Campus Access

Upperclass students could review specific criteria for applying to live on or have access to campus. A form was made available for those who believed they met the criteria.

Remote Learning Support

Muhlenberg College emphasized its strong digital learning teams and intensive digital learning workshops for faculty. These initiatives aimed to develop and teach courses that emphasize student engagement, active learning, and student-faculty relationships, maintaining the characteristics of the Muhlenberg experience.

Financial Aid Information

The Office of Financial Aid provided updated financial aid offers through students' Capstone accounts, reflecting any changes in housing status.

FERPA and Student Rights

Muhlenberg College adheres to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which grants students specific rights regarding their education records.

Student Rights Under FERPA

Right to Inspect and Review Records: Students have the right to inspect and review their education records within 45 days of submitting a written request. The request should be directed to the registrar, dean, department chair, or another appropriate official.
Right to Request Amendment: Students can request amendments to their education records if they believe the records are inaccurate, misleading, or violate their privacy rights under FERPA. If the college denies the amendment request, the student has the right to a hearing.
Right to Provide Written Consent for Disclosure: Generally, the college must obtain written consent from the student before disclosing personally identifiable information from their education records. However, there are exceptions, such as disclosures to school officials with legitimate educational interests.

Directory Information

Muhlenberg College may disclose "directory information" unless a student opts out by notifying the Office of the Registrar in writing. Students should carefully consider the consequences of withholding directory information, as it may affect how the college releases information to non-institutional parties.

tags: #muhlenberg #college #academic #calendar