This webpage contains outdated information. To view CSUCI’s current guidance and reporting resources, including an updated FAQ section, please visit CSUCI’s COVID-19 webpages.
These FAQs - updated on an ongoing basis - are intended to provide information about COVID-19; preventive measures for avoiding infection; how CSUCI is responding to the COVID-19 situation; and other critical information for students, faculty and staff.
About COVID-19 | Health, wellness and prevention
Students | CARES Act for students | Faculty | Staff
University Operations | Commencement | Travel
*please send additional questions to csuci.news@csuci.edu and we will direct your question(s) to the appropriate University personnel for a response.
About COVID-19
1. What is the coronavirus?
Coronavirus is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person and was first identified in 2019 during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. Patients with COVID-19 have reportedly had mild to serious respiratory illness.
2. How is coronavirus spread?
The coronavirus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person through close contact and primarily when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control & Prevention(CDC), COVID-19 is an emerging disease and is not yet entirely understood. Washing hands, cleaning commonly touched surfaces, and avoiding sick people are the best ways to prevent the illness from spreading.
3. What are the symptoms for the coronavirus?
COVID-19 symptoms can include fever, cough and shortness of breath and may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure.
4. Is there a vaccine for the coronavirus? Should I get a flu shot?
The CDC reports that there is no vaccine for COVID-19. However, it is currently the flu and respiratory disease season and it’s recommended that you check with your health care provider about obtaining a flu vaccine. You can also inquire about flu shots without appointments at Ventura County Public Health clinics or local pharmacies and grocery stores.
5. Are there any confirmed cases of coronavirus at CSUCI? (updated 5/17/2020)
Yes. As of May 17, it was confirmed that a member of the campus community had tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). This individual is an employee of the University and is in self-isolation at their residence. Additional information is available in the campus message that was shared with the University community.
Please visit vcemergency.com for up-to-date information about reported cases in Ventura County. For up-to-date information for Santa Barbara County, please visit their public health department website.
6. Where can I get more information about the coronavirus?
Please utilize the links below as a source of current and accurate information on COVID-19, and be aware that other sources may not reflect the most updated information.
California Department of Public Health - Covid-19
U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention
World Health Organization
CSU Chancellor’s Office
U.S. Department of State
Johns Hopkins Real Time Map
County of Ventura
VC Emergency
Ventura County Public Health
Santa Barbara County Public Health
7. How do I know if an email I received about the coronavirus is a phishing email?
Scammers often take advantage of tragic or impactful events to use an incident as an opportunity to scam you. They set up websites to sell bogus products and use fake emails, texts, and social media posts as a ruse to take your money and get your personal information.
Phishing emails often look legitimate promoting awareness and prevention tips, fake information about cases in your neighborhood, ask you to donate to victims, offer advice on unproven treatments, or contain malicious email attachments. We strongly advise you refrain from impulse clicking until you’re able to verify information since these links contain malware or will try to redirect you to spoof websites that initiate malware downloads.
If you ever have a suspicion about an email sent to your CSUCI account, you can forward it to infosec@csuci.edu, and we can take a look at it. Additional information about these types of phishing emails can be viewed at the Federal Trade Commission website.
Health, wellness and prevention
8. What is CSUCI doing about the coronavirus (COVID-19)? (updated 3/17/2020)
CSUCI has accelerated its efforts for social distancing for students and employees in addition to mandatory virtual instruction beginning on March 30, and virtual campus operations. In addition, the University is conducting the following as a precaution during the COVID-19 outbreak:
- Continuously monitoring and following recommendations of the California Department of Public Health, for Covid-19 (CDPH), the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), California State University (PDF, 240KB) system (CSU), and regional public health departments.
- Our emergency dispatchers and first responders have implemented the COVID-19 screening process and response as set by Ventura County Emergency Medical Services (VCEMS). Emergency dispatch will question callers to determine if the call concerns a person who may have signs or symptoms and risk factors for COVID-19. If the call meets the criteria set by VCEMS, responding officers will follow personal protective equipment (PPE) protocol to prevent exposure. The CSUCI Chief of Police has also provided additional information about how officers will respond to all calls at this time.
- Regularly monitoring the situation via a group of key individuals from the campus (Communicable Disease Working Group) that is tasked with actively planning and preparing for actions related to this public health situation and providing University leadership with regular updates. We encourage you to become familiar with the University’s Communicable Disease Preparedness and Response Plan. (PDF, 276KB)
- Providing updates to the campus community via email and text messages, as well as a new campus website about COVID-19. Other communication with individuals may also occur directly through guidance being provided to segments of the students, faculty and staff populations.
- Canceling University-sponsored travel to China, South Korea, Italy and other destinations are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, all UNIV392 study abroad classes have been suspended through Summer 2020.
- Providing screening for students who visit Student Health Services who have a fever, cough, sore throat, or other symptoms consistent with upper respiratory infections.
9. How do I know if I am at risk of contracting coronavirus?
You may be at greater risk if you have recently traveled to regions where there are currently outbreaks of COVID-19, or if you have come into close contact with someone who has the virus. Symptoms typically appear within 2 to 14 days after exposure.
10. How do I protect myself? Should I wear a mask? (updated 6/18/2020)
The CDC and the California Department of Public Health have provided guidance for the use of cloth face coverings by the general public when outside the home conducting essential activities. This does not substitute for existing guidance about social distancing and handwashing.
As of June 18, 2020, cloth face coverings have become mandatory state-wide, as outlined in the California Department of Public Health's Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings.(PDF, 325KB)
Officials recommend that people not wear N95 or surgical masks, noting that this gear should be reserved for health care workers or people who are taking care of someone in a close setting (at home or in a health care facility) in order to protect themselves from an ill person.
For our University, face coverings are mandatory in accordance with the aforementioned guidance and where it is not possible or impractical to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet between employees or other people while performing an assigned task. In that case, if any employee has not already been issued an appropriate face covering, Environmental Health & Safety should be contacted at 805-437-8847 or e-mail peer.gerber@csuci.edu.
All employees who are to wear a face covering while on campus, but cannot provide one, should contact their manager or the Facilities Work Center at 805-437-8461.
CSUCI’s Student Health Services will only provide masks to students who have an appointment and are coughing or sneezing.
We encourage you to actively engage in healthy habits to help prevent contracting and spreading illnesses. There are steps each of us can take to reduce our chances of getting ill — whether from COVID-19, the flu or a cold.
Treat Yourself Well
- Eat healthy
- Maintain good sleep habits
- Manage stress. Students can seek assistance through Counseling & Psychological Services. Employees can seek assistance through the Employee Assistance Program.
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. Students with food insecurities can visit the Dolphin Pantry for fresh produce and healthy options.
Make it Hard for Viruses to Spread
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash; or cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces within your normal surroundings.
- Check with your health care provider whether obtaining the annual flu vaccine is advisable for you.
11. How does the University clean and disinfect areas? (updated 3/17/2020)
CSUCI is following CDC guidance on routine cleaning of all touched surfaces to help prevent exposure to COVID-19. Facility Services staff have increased cleaning of frequently touched areas on campus and have procured sprayers that will allow custodial staff to spray disinfectant cleaner on frequently touched areas of the campus. Those areas will include classroom tables, desks, chairs, counters, door handles, railings, and other common areas.
Faculty and staff are responsible for cleaning/maintaining their own office or work space as needed.
12. What is the difference between quarantine and isolation?
Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick.
Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick.
13. If I have cold or flu-like symptoms, what should I do? Should I self-quarantine? (updated 3/17/2020)
If you are not feeling well, stay home from work, school, and other errands, if possible. Remain home until you have been without a fever for at least 24-48 hours.
Students who feel ill may seek medical attention from Student Health Services, Flu Information (SHS) located in Yuba Hall or from their personal health care provider. Please call SHS at 805-437-8828 or your health care provider before visiting SHS or the medical facility in order to obtain advance instructions.
Faculty and staff who have traveled to high-risk areas or are feeling ill should contact their health care provider before visiting their medical facility in order to obtain advance instructions.
Individuals who have symptoms of influenza-like illness or other respiratory infections, are encouraged to stay at home.
14. Should I be concerned about service dogs, companion animals or pets and COVID-19?
While this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source, it is now spreading from person to person. There is no reason to think that any animals including pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus. To date, CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19.
At this time, there is no evidence that service dogs, companion animals or pets can spread COVID-19. However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals. For more information visit the CDC’s Healthy Pets, Healthy People website.
15. Are there any resources for combating stigmatization, bias and xenophobia related to the coronavirus?
We understand that there is some anxiety and uneasiness around COVID-19; however, we are encouraging our campus community to support one another during this uncertain time.
COVID-19 is a virus that can affect all humans. Racism or stigmatism do not reflect CSUCI’s values. Please review the CDC’s “Share Facts, Not Fear” information and help stop the spread of rumors.
If you believe you have been treated unfairly, discriminated against or harassed based on a protected status, such as disability, medical condition, race or national origin, please contact the University’s Title IX office at titleix@csuci.edu.
Students
16. Will CSUCI cancel classes? (updated 4/16/2020)
As was communicated on March 16, 2020, the University has canceled classes March 16-20 and will accelerate virtual instruction beginning Monday, March 30, 2020. Please read President Beck’s message. Virtual instruction, including final exams, will continue through May 22, 2020.
17. How will grades be assigned for the spring 2020 semester? (updated 6/30/2020)
On April 14, 2020, the CSUCI Academic Senate voted to allow students the option of selecting Credit/No Credit grading options for their courses and extending the deadline for course withdrawal.* Details of these grading changes, including processes and deadlines, are available on the Letter Grade to Credit/No Credit Option website. You can also visit the Spring 2020 Grading Basis FAQs for additional information.
*Please note, the Credit/No Credit grading option and extended deadline for course withdrawal mentioned above only applies to the Spring 2020 semester. These accommodations will not apply to future semesters.
18. Will the campus be open during virtual instruction? (updated 3/17/2020)
Access to University buildings will be restricted and all non-essential campus functions have been temporarily suspended. Virtual support and services for students are available from CAPS, the Broome Library, Academic Advising, TLI, and some other areas.
19. Where can I find resources for virtual instruction? (added 3/17/2020)
Students who have questions about virtual instruction are asked to visit Keep Learning to learn more about available resources.
A limited supply of laptops are available for extended checkout from the Broome Library. Please review their extended laptop loan program details for more information. Details about online tutoring services are available for the Learning Resource Center, the Writing & Multiliteracy Center, and STEM Center.
20. I don’t have internet access away from campus. What are my options? (added 3/19/2020)
In response to the COVID-19 situation, some internet providers are offering free services to low-income families and households with students.
- Comcast Xfinity: New customers can get the Internet Essentials program free for two months
- Charter Spectrum: Households with K-12 and/or college students can sign up for a new Charter Spectrum account to get two free months of internet service. Visit their website or call 1-844-488-8395 to enroll.
- Altice: 60 days of free internet service for households with K-12 or college students. Visit their website for additional details.
- Cox: Free phone and remote desktop technical support and/or one free month of Connect2Compete.
21. Can the Basic Needs Program still provide support to students? (added 3/19/2020)
The Basic Needs Program has compiled a list of resources to assist students who may need additional support during the COVID-19 pandemic. On Campus Resources has more information, including details on how to schedule a Zoom appointment with a Basic Needs staff member.
22. Will the University issue refunds for parking permits, meal plans, campus housing, or tuition and mandatory fees? (updated 4/10/2020)
- Parking Permits: Transportation & Parking Services (TPS) will process all refund requests in accordance with their published proration schedule. Refund details and the request form, (PDF, 540KB) are available online. As of March 20, 2020, only mail-in applications will be accepted as the TPS customer service window in Placer Hall is closed until further notice.
- Housing: Refunds for room and board including meal plans will be provided for residential students who check out from housing. Details will be communicated to residential students directly by Housing staff.
- Commuter Meal/Dining Cards: The value of commuter meal/dining cards doesn’t diminish over time and so the unused swipes on those plans will be waiting for you when you return to campus. If you have extenuating circumstances, please contact UAS Dining islandscafe@csuci.edu. Please visit DolphinOne cards for additional information.
- Tuition and Fees: The CSU has provided updated information on the Interim CSU Refund Policies for Tuition and Fees. Tuition and mandatory fees are based on instruction and other services and even though we have transitioned to virtual instruction, we will continue to provide instruction, grades and other services -- though in a different format due to a very unique circumstance.
Keep in mind that some refunds may impact your Financial Aid award and we will share the individual impacts to students as we receive guidance from the U.S. Department of Education.
23. I am employed as a student assistant on campus. Can I keep working? (updated 3/20/2020)
We understand student assistants are concerned about how the virtual learning environment will impact their work hours and pay, so the following arrangement has been implemented:
- All student assistants will be paid through the end of the semester.
- Student Assistants who have access to the appropriate technology may also be allowed to telecommute, if the nature of their work allows for it.
- Student Assistants whose work cannot be performed remotely may be reassigned to another position.
- Student Assistants who do not have access to technology nor the ability to work remotely nor is the nature of their work such it can be performed remotely, will be paid their regularly scheduled hours at their regular rate of pay through the end of the semester.
24. Will bus service to CSUCI be suspended? (updated 3/15/2020)
No. The regular bus schedule will continue through March 20, 2020. Starting Saturday, March 21, VCTC service will continue at a reduced service frequency and the bus system will operate on the Route 99 weekend schedule.
Information about VCTC Service and Coronavirus, including increased safety measures, is available online.
25. I feel worried and stressed about coronavirus. What can I do?
We understand that situations like this could be distressing and anxiety producing for many people. If you would like to talk with someone about how this situation is impacting you, support and resources are available for the campus community.
- Students can seek support through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPs). Students can access CAPS by visiting the clinic in Bell Tower East Room 1867, or by calling for an appointment at 805-437-2088. CAPS also provides 24/7 telephone counseling by calling 805-437-2088 and selecting option 2. Students who are unable to attend campus can contact CAPS to discuss alternative options for receiving counseling services.
26. Has the deadline to withdraw from a course or fully withdraw from the term changed at all? (added 3/20/2020)
Course drops have been extended to the end of the term (May 29, 2020). For those who wish to file a term withdraw (fully withdraw), the deadline remains the same (May 29, 2020). Please visit the Registrar’s website for further information and updates.
27. Will the transition to virtual operations affect the admissions process timeline? (added 3/20/2020)
Not at this time. Admissions is currently processing admission decisions and students will be informed via email and their myCI portal. The deadline to submit your Intent to Enroll is under discussion and the Admissions office will communicate any changes with applicants. If you have a specific question related to Admissions, please email admissions@csuci.edu and a representative will contact you via email.
28. Do out-of-state or international students need to follow any new or different instructions for admissions at this time? (added 3/20/2020)
International students need to email Scott Trevino for guidance on the admissions process. Out-of-state students should follow all regularly communicated deadlines. If any changes or adjustments are made, an announcement will be made to applicants.
Residential Students
29. Will student housing remain open? (updated 3/17/2020)
Residential students who do not have another place to go, may remain in student housing.
- However, we have asked residential students to return to their permanent home, if possible, as soon as they are able.
- Refunds for room and board will be provided for students who checkout.
- Housing & Residential Education will continue to send messaging via email to provide updates and more details with regards to the checkout process.
- Dining options will be limited to remaining housing students only; all food will be provided using the safest social distancing methods possible, including ‘grab and go’ options at Islands Café, however, in-dining service will not be available.
30. I still reside in Student Housing. How does the Governor’s Stay at Home order affect services? (added 3/20/2020)
Universities/colleges are considered to be an “essential service” in the context of this order. As such, for those who will be staying in housing, we will continue to ensure that we have the required staffing on-site to meet your needs throughout the semester.
31. I have already left Housing and was unable to take all of my belongings. Will they be secure in Housing on campus? (added 3/20/2020)
Students who left belongings behind do not need to worry about their belongings; they are secure. Please adhere to the Stay at Home Order. Students will not be allowed to return to campus until the order has been lifted. We will be in contact once it is deemed safe to return to campus for your belongings.
32. What action is the University taking in residence halls to prevent any potential spread of the coronavirus?
Common areas and residence hall bathrooms are disinfected five days a week to ensure cleanliness and sanitation. Increased attention is also being given to “high contact” points such as door handles, fixtures, elevator buttons, etc. However, students should also take precaution and regularly clean their living space.
CARES Act for students
33. What is the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES)/Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) provided by the federal government? (added 5/6/2020)
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress and signed into law to provide economic relief from COVID-19. One section of the CARES Act established the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) and sent money to schools to use for emergency financial relief for students for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the pandemic.
34. Who is eligible to receive money under The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act/Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF)? (updated 6/6/2020)
All currently enrolled students who are eligible to receive federal financial aid and were not enrolled in a completely online program as of March 13, 2020 are eligible. The Financial Aid & Scholarships office will use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) data to determine your eligibility. If you are eligible to file a FAFSA, but have not yet done so, please complete your 2019-20 FAFSA no later than Tuesday, June 30, 2020. The FASFA eligibility requirements include the following:
- Students must be meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
- Students must not be in default on a Title IV loan
- Students must not owe an overpayment on a Title IV grant
- Students must have a FAFSA on file
Most other currently enrolled students may receive emergency financial relief supported by other sources of institutional funding. CARES Emergency Grants will be pro-rated for part-time students. Even if students have current financial holds or owe the campus fees or fines, they are still eligible for this program.
Information about CSUCI's CARES Act allocation and distribution details are available on the CARES Act Emergency Grant Report web page.
35. I am eligible to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but I haven’t done so yet, how do I do that? (added 6/6/2020)
In order to receive the CARES Act funding through CSUCI, please complete your 2019-20 FAFSA no later than Tuesday, June 30, 2020.
36. How do I confirm if I have a 2019-20 FAFSA on file? (added 5/6/2020)
To check the status of your FAFSA, please visit the Federal Student Aid website and login as a Returning User.
37. How much am I receiving? (added 5/6/2020)
Students will receive varying amounts of assistance. All eligible students will receive an automatic disbursement based on the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) identified by completing the FAFSA.
38. How will I receive my financial relief? (added 5/6/2020)
You will receive your financial disbursement in the form of a check, which will be sent to the mailing address you have on file. As such, please confirm your mailing address on file in your Student Center in CI Records through myCI as soon as possible.
39. Where do I confirm and/or update my mailing address? (added 5/6/2020)
Mailing addresses may be updated in your Student Center in CI Records through your myCI account. Please confirm that the mailing address on file is accurate as soon as possible and update, if needed.
40. How long will it take to receive my check? (added 5/6/2020)
Checks will be sent via U.S. Postal Service to the mailing address on file beginning Monday, May 11. Please confirm that the mailing address in your Student Center in CI Records through your myCI account is accurate as soon as possible.
41. Will receiving these funds impact future financial aid offers or taxes? (updated 5/7/2020)
Officials have confirmed that this aid should be treated as a “qualified disaster relief payment” and therefore is not subject to taxation.
42. What if I need more money than I am receiving? (added 5/6/2020)
In addition to the automatic disbursements being sent out in the form of a check via U.S. mail, the campus has also set aside funding to provide additional financial relief to students who have self-identified as having an even greater need. Details regarding this application and process are forthcoming.
Students may also reach out to the campus’ Basic Needs Program for access to resources and support beyond the disbursement of relief funding.
43. After reviewing the above, I still have questions, who can I contact? (added 5/6/2020)
- The Information Hotline | 805-437-3911
- For general questions pertaining to the FAQs
- Financial Aid | financial.aid@csuci.edu | 805-437-8530
- For questions regarding my eligibility, form(s) needed to complete to receive my funds, or my FAFSA application.
- Student Business Services | sbs@csuci.edu | 805-437-8810
- For questions regarding the status of my disbursement check.
- Dean of Students office | deanofstudents@csuci.edu | 805-427-8512
- For questions regarding additional emergency grant funding and the Basic Needs Program.
Faculty
44. Does the University have a contingency plan for continuing classes? (updated 4/10/2020)
CSUCI will accelerate the transition to virtual instruction as noted below:
Timeline Summary
- Monday, March 16-20: Classes are canceled. Faculty and staff make final adjustments to mandatory virtual learning environment
- Monday, March 23-27: Spring Break
- Monday, March 30 through May 22: Mandatory Virtual Instruction including Finals
Teaching and Learning Innovations (TLI) at CSUCI offers resources for technology and pedagogical best practices that can help faculty and students.
45. How will the Governor's directive for a "Stay at Home" order impact my work? (updated 4/15/2020)
All faculty and staff who have been requested to work remotely should continue to telecommute until the “Stay at Home” order is lifted. Employees will receive email instructions on remote work arrangements and procedures. Employees who were notified they are designated personnel (on-campus staff who need to come to campus for work) should continue to report to work on campus, observing social distancing protocols and heightened personal hygiene procedures. The campus will continue to operate virtually and University buildings have been closed except for employees with restricted access. Emergency personnel will remain in place to maintain a safe campus community.
46. Will the University refund parking permit fees for faculty who are not parking on campus during the virtual instruction period? (added 4/10/2020)
Refunds for parking permit fees may be requested through the TPS process; details and the request form (PDF, 540KB) are available online.
Staff
47. Will the campus remain open? (updated 3/17/2020)
Beginning March 17, access to University buildings will be restricted throughout the campus virtual operations through the end of the semester. If you have questions about virtual campus operations, please discuss with your supervisor.
48. How will the Governor's recent directive for a "Stay at Home" order impact my work? (updated 4/15/2020)
All faculty and staff who have been requested to work remotely should continue to telecommute until the “Stay at Home” order is lifted. Employees will receive email instructions on remote work arrangements and procedures. Employees who were notified they are designated personnel (on-campus staff who need to come to campus for work) should continue to report to work on campus, observing social distancing protocols and heightened personal hygiene procedures. The campus will continue to operate virtually and University buildings have been closed except for employees with restricted access. Emergency personnel will remain in place to maintain a safe campus community.
49. I am not familiar with working remotely. Where can I find resources and support? (added 3/19/2020)
Information Technology Services (ITS) offers resources and tips for employees who are working remotely. You can visit the Keep Working website to learn more.
50. Will student assistants continue to work and be paid? (added 3/20/2020)
We understand student assistants are concerned about how the virtual learning environment will impact their work hours and pay, so the following arrangement has been implemented:
- All student assistants will be paid through the end of the semester.
- Student Assistants who have access to the appropriate technology may also be allowed to telecommute, if the nature of their work allows for it.
- Student Assistants whose work cannot be performed remotely may be reassigned to another position.
- Student Assistants who do not have access to technology nor the ability to work remotely nor is the nature of their work such it can be performed remotely, will be paid their regularly scheduled hours at their regular rate of pay through the end of the semester.
51. Will bus service to CSUCI be suspended? (updated 3/15/2020)
No. The regular bus schedule will continue through March 20, 2020. However, starting Saturday, March 21, VCTC service will continue at a reduced service frequency and the bus system will operate on the Route 99 Weekend Schedule.
Information about VCTC Service and the coronavirus, including increased safety measures, is available online.
52. Will the University refund parking permit fees for staff who are not parking on campus during the virtual operations period? (added 4/10/2020)
Refunds for parking permit fees may be requested through the TPS process; details and the request form (PDF, 540KB) are available online.
53. I feel worried and stressed about coronavirus and I am having difficulty navigating polices and workplace processes in light of all the changes. What can I do?
We understand that situations like this could be distressing and anxiety producing for many people. If you would like to talk to someone about how this situation is impacting you, support and resources are available.
- Faculty and staff can obtain confidential support services through the Employee Assistance Program or by contacting Human Resources at 805-437-8490.
- The Ombuds Office is available to support faculty and staff by providing off-the-record and impartial help navigating change and addressing difficult work relations virtually. The University Ombuds can meet by Zoom or by phone. Appointments can be scheduled confidentially at https://www.csuci.edu/ombuds/contact/index.htm.
University Operations
54. Will CSUCI cancel classes? (updated 4/10/2020)
As was communicated on March 16, 2020, the University has canceled classes March 16-20 and will accelerate virtual instruction beginning Monday, March 30, 2020. Please read President Beck’s message. Virtual instruction, including final exams, will continue through May 22, 2020.
55. I’m hosting or will be attending an event on campus, should I cancel it or attend? (updated 3/17/2020)
Effective immediately, all on-campus events at CSUCI are canceled throughout the duration of the campus' virtual operations.
Commencement
56. Will there still be a Commencement ceremony? (updated 4/10/2020)
Given the circumstances of COVID-19 and the sacrifices that everyone has made to ensure the educational progression of our students, we are fully committed to delivering an in-person ceremony that honors our 2020 graduates. However, given the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the pandemic, it is unclear when we will be able to finalize an appropriate date for such a large gathering.
Despite that fact, we simply did not want to let this momentous occasion pass without a celebration and we will be holding a virtual commencement celebration on Saturday, May 23, 2020. This event will focus on our graduates and will be interactive, allowing them to celebrate with their classmates, loved ones, faculty, and members of our campus community.
To be clear, this celebration will not replace an in-person ceremony at a later date. Once a new date for our in-person Commencement ceremony has been identified, we will notify the campus community.
We hope you will join us Saturday, May 23 to cheer on our Class of 2020. Details on the virtual celebration will be forthcoming.
57. There are a lot of events associated with Commencement, like Honors Convocation and the Nursing Pinning ceremony. Will these be held at another time? (added 3/19/2020)
At this time, all events associated with Commencement are postponed. Once a new date for Commencement has been determined, we will set a new date for Honors Convocation and explore our options for rescheduling the other events. We realize that while the Commencement ceremony itself is momentous, so are the smaller ceremonies that celebrate the hard work and academic achievements of our students.
58. I ordered graduation announcements with the original date of Commencement. How do I get new ones with the correct date when that has been determined? (added 3/19/2020)
For those who have already received their graduation announcements or have placed an order for them, Jostens will send you new, blank date and time cards where you can write in the new date of Commencement once it has been announced. If you have yet to place an announcement order and wish to do so, we recommend placing your order after the new date has been announced.
For those who are unable to attend Commencement on the new date (to be determined), information about refunds for your announcements will be forthcoming.
59. Can I get a refund on my cap and gown purchase? (added 3/19/2020)
Yes, if you are unable to attend the postponed date of Commencement (to be determined), The Cove Bookstore can issue a refund. If you would like to keep certain items as a keepsake, the Bookstore can work with you on those items. Please call them directly at 805-482-5456 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
60. Can I still order graduation items even though Commencement has been postponed? (added 3/19/2020)
Yes. Once a new date for Commencement has been announced, the Bookstore will be able to facilitate telephone transactions for those who wish to purchase graduation items.
61. Is The Cove Bookstore open? (updated 6/16/2020)
The Cove Bookstore is currently open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and they are closed on the weekends. It is strongly recommended that you call before visiting, as they have protocol in place to ensure social distancing. You can reach The Cove Bookstore at 805-482-5456.
62. Since Commencement is postponed does this impact my graduation term? (added 3/19/2020)
No. The decision to postpone commencement ceremonies will not affect the timing of degree completion. Degree conferral will be governed by the completion of the academic work for the relevant degree.
63. Will I still get my diploma? (added 3/19/2020)
Yes. At this time, the spring 2020 term dates remain unchanged. Degree processing begins after grades are submitted and diplomas are mailed two to four weeks after your degree posts.
Keep in mind that diplomas are sent to the mailing address on record with CSUCI. You can verify your address is up to date by checking myCI.
Travel
Spring break and other personal travel plans may be entered into the CSUCI COVID-19 Travel Registry.
64. I have recently returned from an affected area. What should I do?
If you are ill and have traveled out of the country in the last 21 days or if you have had close contact with a person known to be infected by COVID-19:
- Stay home and do not come to campus for classes or for work. Notify your faculty member or supervisor if you are going to miss class or work.
- Students with fever, cough or severe illness should stay home or remain within their residence hall and call Student Health Services (SHS) at 805-437-8828 before visiting SHS or their personal health care provider in order to obtain specific instructions.
- Faculty or staff with fever, cough or severe illness should stay home and seek medical attention by calling their personal health care provider before visiting their medical facility in order to obtain specific instructions.
65. I am currently studying abroad. What should I do? (updated 3/21/2020)
All CSUCI students currently studying in University-approved programs overseas are required to return to the United States as soon as possible, and campus administration and staff will support them during and after the process. CDC recommends universities consider asking current program participants to return to their home country. Students abroad may face unpredictable circumstances, travel restrictions, and challenges in returning home or accessing health care while abroad. For additional information visit: www.csuci.edu/international.
66. I have applied or plan to study abroad. What should I do? (added 3/9/2020)
All University-approved summer study abroad programs have been cancelled. All students who have yet to leave for their Spring study abroad programs are no longer permitted to go. Study abroad applications continue to be open for Fall semester. Future study abroad programs will be reviewed prior to the start of the term to determine whether programs will continue as initially planned.
67. I plan to travel internationally on a University-sponsored trip, what should I do? (added 3/9/2020)
As recommended by the CDCand the U.S. Department of State, the University has canceled all University-sponsored travel to Level 3 countries including China, South Korea and Italy.
Out of an abundance of caution and keeping the health and safety of our students as the number one priority, all UNIV392 study abroad classes have been suspended through Summer 2020. Faculty teaching these classes are developing alternative options for students to successfully complete these classes. Faculty who have questions should discuss with their respective Dean and students enrolled in these courses should contact their faculty member.
Additionally, all previously approved University-sponsored travel will need to be reviewed and approved again with your respective Vice President or the Provost.
Because the situation is fluid, students, faculty or staff who plan to travel out of the country during spring break (March 23-28, 2020) are urged to be aware of any travel restrictions. We urge you to be attentive to travel advisories and existing regulations, and to follow the guidance provided by agencies such as the CDC and the U.S. Department of State.
You should avoid non-essential travel to foreign countries where the CDC has identified the sustained transmission of COVID-19. Please familiarize yourself with the following resources for reliable and accurate information:
- CDC Information for Travel
- CDC Situation Summary
- U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories
- U.S. Department of State Country Information
- World Health Organization Travel Advice
I have a coronavirus question that has not been addressed here, who can I contact?
Please send additional questions to csuci.news@csuci.edu and we will direct your question(s) to the appropriate University personnel for a
response.