Specifics Regarding Face Covering Requirements Added for Fall Semester

University Relations

Chancellor Joe Steinmetz and Big Red showing the proper use of a face covering.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – With the fall semester set to begin on Aug. 24, the campus community should be aware of the face covering requirements that have been put in place in preparation of their return to campus.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the university is implementing various measures to protect the health and well-being of our community. One of those measures is the requirement of masks or face coverings when indoors. Face coverings are also required outdoors when at least six feet of social distancing can't be assured. 

The use of appropriate cloth face coverings is important for the health and well-being of our campus community. Face coverings should cover both the nose and mouth. The requirements do not apply to individuals that cannot wear masks due to documented medical conditions.

The university anticipates that the campus community will also comply with the Governor's Executive Order and City of Fayetteville's face covering requirements when off-campus.

INDOORS

Face coverings will be required at all times indoors on campus (in all campus buildings and facilities) with some limited exceptions including when in a private office or private room, community bathrooms and while eating. 

OUTDOORS

Face coverings are required outdoors when social distancing of six feet can not be assured.

Those not complying with the use of face coverings in required settings will be asked to leave and return with a face covering. The university is prepared to enforce these requirements through educational conversations and, if necessary, instituting Code of Student Life disciplinary actions for students or utilizing progressive discipline for employees.

These requirements were developed based on guidance provided by Governor Asa Hutchinson, the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees, the Arkansas Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the City of Fayetteville.

The best sources for additional information and the latest news and updates regarding COVID-19's impact to campus is the university's Coronavirus Update site and the Returning to Campus guide.  

About the University of Arkansas: The University of Arkansas provides an internationally competitive education for undergraduate and graduate students in more than 200 academic programs. The university contributes new knowledge, economic development, basic and applied research, and creative activity while also providing service to academic and professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University of Arkansas among fewer than 3 percent of colleges and universities in America that have the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Arkansas among its top American public research universities. Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas comprises 10 colleges and schools and maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio that promotes personal attention and close mentoring.