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Health & Safety

Kean University is dedicated to protecting the health and well-being of our campus community. Learn more about the University’s health and safety protocols designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

COVID-19 Policies and Expectations

Kean University strives to create and maintain an environment that is healthy and safe for all community members. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the University to institute protocols for the health and safety of the entire campus community. As such, these protocols must be adhered to by all Kean students and apply on all Kean University campuses. Effective September 1, 2021, all students who attended classes on campus must receive a COVID-19 vaccination, subject to approved medical and religious exemptions. The University has made a commitment to educate its community about COVID-19 and the importance of getting vaccinated, as well as to implement general safeguarding practices to help prevent the spread on campus. The protocols instituted by the University take into consideration federal, state and local public health guidance, the needs of vulnerable populations, and the mission of the University and are necessary to protect the entire Kean community as we resume face-to-face classes and on-campus activities.

Kean University's protocols encompass testing, contact tracing, isolation and quarantine, daily health checks, social distancing and face coverings. The implementation of these protocols may change over time depending on the rate of transmission of COVID-19 on campus and in the surrounding community and the recommendations of local and state health officials. Studetns are expected to prioritize their health and the health and safety of the Kean community, commit to responsible actions on and off campus, and uphold the community values of integrity, fairness, community, respect and responsibility.

  • Students must self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 daily
  • Commuter students must stay home and contact Student Health Services or another health care professional if they feel ill or have been exposed to someone who is exhibiting symptoms of or has tested positive for COVID-19.
  • Residential students must stay in their assigned residence hall and must contact their Resident Assistant or the Residence Hall Director if they feel ill or have been exposed to someone who is exhibiting symptoms of or has tested positive for COVID-19.
  • Students must report positive test results, isolation or quarantine orders to Student Health Services and follow all directions given.
  • Unvaccinated students shall test one day per week and must report to Downs Hall for testing on the days/times assigned to them. If an unvaccinated student misses a weekly test, it will be considered a Level II offense under this policy.
  • Vaccinated students who have been deemed a close contact or who are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 may be required to submit to testing, as directed by Student Health Services or other public health officials.
  • Students must follow all recommendations for quarantine and/or isolation, as directed by Student Health Services or other public health officials.
  • Students must cooperate in the University's contact tracing efforts.
  • All students, regardless of vaccination status, must wear masks or other face coverings that cover the nose and mouth in all buildings on campus (except when in an assigned residence suite or when eating or exercising.) Unvaccinated students will also have to wear masks when outside when a minimum distance of six (6) feet cannot be safely maintained.
  • Vaccinated students must wear masks or other face coverings when attending University-sponsored events and in certain areas on campus (i.e. Student Health Services, Kean Counseling Centers), as directed by the University. Vaccinated students may also be required to wear masks or face coverings in classrooms and buildings on campus, if directed by the University.
  • Unvaccinated students must maintain appropriate social distancing in social situations whether on or off campus.
  • Students must observe all instructional signs posted by the University.
  • Resident students may not have overnight guests and must follow University guidelines for visitors on campus, which currently requires all unvaccinated visitors to wear masks and maintain social distancing at all times when on campus.

The above protocols may be amended by the Vice President of Student Affairs, as needed, to comply with local and state public health guidelines and recommendations as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves. Notice to the campus community will be given by email communication.

Failure to abide by any of the above protocols will violate the COVID-19 Community Standards Policy. Violations of this nature are taken very seriously and can lead to separation from the University if found responsible under the Student Code of Conduct. As a reminder, discriminatory harassment, including speech, actions, or conduct that have the effect of depriving a member of the community of education or employment access, enjoyment, benefits, or opportunities is not tolerated by the University. Bullying, harassment and intimidation because of someone's actual or perceived vaccination status will not be tolerated and will constitute a violation of this policy.