This site provides access to the most up-to-date information on Penn State's response to the coronavirus, as well as related campus-specific information.  

KeepLearning.psu.edu: This dedicated website for students offers support for remote learning, resources for academic advising and tutoring, and contact information.  

KeepTeaching.psu.edu: Course instructors visiting the site will find information on effective teaching, technology training, webinars and support as they update and teach their courses for the upcoming semester. The site also features a newly created guide for instructors specifically designed for preparing and teaching this fall. 

VirusInfo.psu.edu: Penn State’s main website with links to the latest news and answers to frequently asked questions about the University’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. The site’s resources page also contains links to dedicated resources for students and employees; information on testing, contact tracing and monitoring for the campus community; classroom and office guidance; and policies on masking and social distancing.

Penn State COVID-19 Compact: Before returning to campus, students are asked to verify that they understand the behavioral requirements and guidelines, via LionPath.

Table of Contents

COVID-19 testing, call center, other resources available over winter break

Mail-in testing, the coronavirus hotline, health and counseling services will continue to be offered with modified availability through end-of-year break.

Mail-In Testing

Mail-in testing at Commonwealth Campuses will be available from Dec. 24 through Jan. 3.

COVID-19 Response Center

From Dec. 24 through Jan. 3, the COVID-19 Response Center, available at 814-865-2121 for faculty, staff, students and their families, will be available with modified hours.

Commonwealth Campus Health Services

Commonwealth Campus Health Services will operate normally Dec. 21 to 23, and the nurse advice line will continue to be available 24/7 to all students at all Penn State locations throughout the break. Campus Health Services will resume regular operations Jan. 4 to 8.

See the Student Health Services website for hours and services for the Penn State Harrisburg campus.

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

The 24/7 crisis line for CAPS will continue to be available to all students, and those concerned for a student. The University will also be providing additional support to students living in on-campus residences during the break. 

The Penn State Crisis Line is available around the clock at 877-229-6400 or by texting “LIONS” to 74141.

[Top of Page]

Spring 2021 Schedule, Class Scheduling and Course Delivery Modes

  • The spring 2021 semester will start on Jan. 18; however, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, there will be no classes on this day.
  • All classes will be delivered remotely starting on Tuesday, Jan. 19.
  • On February 15, classes will transition to their regularly scheduled mode (Note: this date could change based on health and safety factors and guidance from the state).
  • Students are strongly discouraged from returning to campus, off-campus locations, and group dwellings (e.g., apartments and fraternities) during the four weeks of the remote period. Students who must return to their campus community before Feb. 15 will be required to order and complete a free COVID-19 test before their arrival. See Testing Requirements..., below.
  • There will be no spring break.
  • Three Wellness Days, with no classes, have been added: Feb. 9, Mar. 11, and Apr. 7.
  • The semester will end on Apr. 30.
  • Final exams will be held May 3 through May 7.

Once the Schedule of Courses is posted on October 15, students should meet with their adviser to plan their schedules and ensure they are on track to meet their academic milestones. Students should consult the “Registration Timetable” on the Office of the University Registrar website to determine when they are eligible to register, based on the number of credits earned.

Instructors will deliver their courses using the same flexible instructional modes that were developed for the fall 2020 semester.

For the most current information on Spring 2021 plans, visit keeplearning.psu.edu/spring-2021

[Top of Page]

Testing Requirements for Students who Must Return to Campus Communities

The University is urging students who live off campus to postpone their return to their campus community unless it is necessary for work, academic-program-specific reasons or other important circumstances. Students who must return to their campus community before Feb. 15 will be required to order and complete a free COVID-19 test before their arrival.

Please review the complete details of this process for students who must return to their campus community before the all-remote period ends.

[Top of Page]

Surveillance Testing Program

Penn State Harrisburg is participating in the University’s surveillance testing program where asymptomatic individuals are being screened for potential exposure to COVID19. Students and employees who are learning, working or living on or near campus will be selected randomly and contacted by email and text message to answer a few screening questions and to schedule an appointment.

  • If selected, students and employees are required to complete the free testing and should plan to do so within 24-48 hours after being contacted.
  • Surveillance testing at Penn State Harrisburg is being conducted in Student Health Services, 220 Capital Union Building
  • Testing is available Mon.-Tues., 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m, Wed.-Fri., 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m, and Sat.-Sun. 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., all by appointment.

Symptomatic Testing

Students

The University has contracted with a COVID-19 testing company to conduct rapid turnaround testing for symptomatic or suspected positive students. Penn State Harrisburg students who believe they are experiencing symptoms will need to:

  • make a telemedicine appointment with Student Health Services at Penn State Harrisburg
  • or the 24/7 nurse advice line at 814-863-4463, for evaluation

After this health screening, if a student is deemed in need of a test, they will be directed to the symptomatic testing center outside, adjacent to the CUB.

The testing results will be shared with the student as well as University Health Services, to enact contact tracing if needed. Contact tracing is supported out of University Park, and all individuals (students and employees) that were potentially exposed will be contacted and provided further instructions.

Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff who believe they are experiencing symptoms should consult with their personal health care provider. If an employee receives a positive test result, they or their supervisor should contact Penn State Occupational Medicine at [email protected] or 814-863-8492, and Occupational Medicine will provide guidance on the next steps to initiate any work adjustments that need to take place, as well as initiate the contact tracing process.

[Top of Page]

Environmental Health and Safety

As part of the preparations for the return to campus of faculty, staff, and students, the college has undertaken numerous environmental health and safety measures, including:

  • Upgraded air filters and increases to the amount of fresh air introduced into buildings through HVAC systems.
  • UV air sanitizers installed in HVAC systems and portable UV air sanitizers to clean indoor air. 
  • Basic disinfectant materials located in classrooms, office suites and other common areas on campus.
  • Use of CDC recommended cleaning materials to disinfect high touch surfaces on a regular basis.
  • Installation of magnetic door hold opens for stairways, where feasible.
  • Conversion of 20 water fountains to touch-free handwashing stations.
  • Placement of 170 hand sanitizer stations throughout campus, with a focus on high traffic areas. 
  • Installation of Plexiglas barriers in some high transaction spaces as well as the installation of clear vinyl sheeting or a reconfiguration of some workspaces and suites to provide additional separation and minimize close in-person contact. 
  • High-visibility placement of safety and directional signage across campus.

[Top of Page]

Classroom Policies for Spring 2021

To help create a safer learning, living and working environment for all students, faculty and staff, new classroom policies will be in effect (starting Fall 2020) across Penn State’s campuses in alignment with public health recommendations and Gov. Tom Wolf’s requirements for higher education institutions. Specific policy guidance has been posted to the Office of Student Conduct website.

Changes to classroom and instructional delivery include:

  • Limited seating in classrooms and labs, to continue social distancing.
  • The addition of new, temporary classroom space in areas such as the CUB Events Room and Gallery Lounge. 
  • Remote delivery of any class with more than 100 students.
  • A combination of in-person, remote and hybrid instruction, with accommodations made for students who miss class due to illness. 
  • Implementation of the University’s return-to-research protocols to maintain social distancing and other safety measures in all research labs.
  • Expanded Wifi throughout campus and the creation of "Remote Learning Spaces" — areas with strong wireless connections where individuals can sit to virtually attend classes or do work with social distancing and mask wearing enforced.

To reduce the risk of widespread virus transmission, wearing face masks and social distancing will be required for all students and employees in classrooms, labs, offices and campus buildings. Students and employees also should practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings and wear face masks while on campus, as well as within their local communities in line with local and state requirements.

Two contact tracing student referral forms are now available; one allows students to self-report concerns and the other allows individuals to refer students who have tested positive for COVID-19 or who may have been exposed.

Complete details are available in a July 1 release from the University on Masking and Social Distancing Policies.

[Top of Page]

Campus Services:

Admissions & Financial Aid

Prospective students: schedule a virtual visit! Connect with us and learn more about the admissions process, academic program options, student engagement opportunities, and what it is like to become part of the Penn State Harrisburg community.

The Penn State Harrisburg Admissions & Financial Aid team is also available Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. to meet with prospective students and families via phone or online Zoom meetings.  

Academic Advising

Students can schedule a meeting with their assigned adviser through Starfish. If your adviser does not use Starfish, you will need to email your assigned adviser regarding appointments. If you don't know who your adviser is, you can find their contact info on the top right of your LionPATH homepage under "My Advisers."

As noted above, students are encouraged to consult with their academic adviser as they work to make changes to their schedule.

Advisers are able to meet with students over the phone, via Zoom, or through email. You will need to communicate with your assigned adviser to confirm how you will meet remotely. If you do not have an adviser listed, we can connect you to an adviser. Adviser assignment questions or any general advising-related questions can be directed to: [email protected]

Career Services

The John Crain Kunkel Career Center will be available, remotely, to all students and alumni. We are here to help you with: resumes, mock interviews, internship and job searches, graduate school, and all other career/internship related needs. You may schedule your virtual appointment via email, [email protected] or by phone, 717-948-6260.

Housing and Food Services

Room and Board Rate Changes for Spring 2021

Room and Board rates for the Spring 2021 semester have been adjusted in recognition of the University’s decision to delay the start of in-person classes until Feb. 15. 

Library Services

The Penn State Harrisburg Library will continue to support faculty, staff, and students through a variety of remote offerings. Please review the Available Library Services page for complete details on textbooks, online databases, research consultations, and more.

Tutoring Services

Students can schedule an online tutoring session for Subject Area Tutoring, Writing, or Academic Success Coaching via Starfish. All online tutoring utilizes Zoom. A Zoom link will be provided on Starfish. All Subject Area Tutoring appointments must be made by 7 a.m. the day of the scheduled meeting time.

Questions about online tutoring or general Learning Center questions can be asked at [email protected].

[Top of Page]

Points of Contact at Penn State Harrisburg
Questions concerning... Referral Phone Number
Student health Student Health Services
Refer to SHS homepage for hours and full contact info.

24/7 Nurse Advice Line also available for after-hours care.		 717-948-6015


814-863-4463
Classes/Coursework - Students

Students should contact their individual faculty members in the manner that they typically communicate with them (e.g. Canvas, email, etc.); refer to the Faculty/Staff Directory as needed.

Please review the Student FAQ on the general PSU Virus Info site. 

More hints and tips are available at remotelearning.psu.edu
Classes/Coursework - Faculty Center for Teaching Excellence
Remote Teaching at Penn State		 717-948-6501
Computer labs, getting online Refer to the ITS website for ways to seek help.
Academic advising and tutoring

As noted above, students are encouraged to consult with their academic adviser as they work to make changes to their schedule.

Lambert Undergraduate Advising Center

Russell E. Horn Sr. Learning Center

 Advising: 717-948-6604

Tutoring: 717-948-6475
Counseling or psychological services

CAPS staff is available via phone Monday through Friday, 8AM - 5PM.

  • Appointments will be offered via Telehealth. Call 717-948-6025 to schedule.
  • Students with existing appointments: check your email for details.
  • All crisis phone and text lines remain available 24/7.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)		 717-948-6025
Disability services or academic accommodations Student DisAbility Resources 717-948-6025
International student support International Student Support Services 717-948-6273
Other student concerns Student Affairs 717-948-6180
Safety and security University Police & Public Safety 717-948-6232
On-campus housing and dining Housing and Food Services Food Services: 717-948-6241
Housing: 717-948-6244
Residence Life: 717-948-6269
From the media Marketing and Communications 717-948-4367
Library/Research Consultation Penn State Harrisburg Library 717-948-6070
All other questions Marketing and Communications 717-948-4367

Please note that many offices and support units may have modified hours or contact methods during this period of remote instruction and social distancing.
Review our Contact Us page for a comprehensive listing of departmental contact information, or search our Campus Directory by name or unit.

[Top of Page]

Student Care & Advocacy

Student Emergency Fund

Penn State, in collaboration with Barnes and Noble College, has established a Student Emergency Funds Program to help meet the immediate needs of students experiencing crisis situations. Provided in the form of one-time awards, the value of the awards range in response to the specific needs of the student but typically does not exceed $1,000. Visit the Student Affairs website for information regarding eligibility or to share a concern. Direct questions to 814-863-2020 or [email protected].

CARES Act Funding

Penn State was allotted nearly $55 million from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Half of Penn State’s allocation – or approximately $27.5 million – is designated by law to be disbursed as emergency cash grants to students impacted by disruptions to campus operations as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Penn State is distributing these grants via two rounds of funding. In the first round, the University will award grants up to $1,000 to more than 25,000 students, based on family income and other data from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

More details are available in the  University's FAQ on this federal funding or from the campus' Office of Student Aid.

WeCare Food Pantry

The on-campus Food Pantry is available to any Penn State Harrisburg student in need of food. To place an order, please complete the on-line order form on Engage. Please first complete the “Pantry Intake Form” if you haven’t already completed one for this year. Once your order is processed (within 2 business days), you will receive a notification of where and when to pick up your order. 

[Top of Page]

Access to Campus for Faculty and Staff

Limited Access Requests

Faculty and staff may request one-time or recurring (limited) access to campus if a visit is required in support of remote learning or the delivery of instruction, mission critical administrative tasks, or similar. Note that access first needs prior approval by one's immediate supervisor, who will be copied on the access request form submission.

Faculty and staff should not visit campus without obtaining permission to do so, so that we can keep the campus sanitized and safe for our community.

Return to On-Site Work (ROSW) Requests

Faculty and staff who have been approved for Return to On-Site Work (ROSW) by their supervisor may be asked to complete a request via the form below. Please do not select this request option without conferring with your supervisor. Note that ROSW requests may require additional information after submission of this form.

Request Access to Campus or ROSW

Visitors, including Visiting Scholars

Limiting the density of the on-campus population reduces the chances of incidental contact that could spread illness. To further reduce the chances of exposure, the University has developed protocols to limit public access to campus buildings. Units are strongly encouraged to continue to engage with visitors remotely whenever possible.

Individuals wishing to have a non-employee visit campus for any period of time must make a request to their unit executive. Examples of visitors include, but are not limited to, those wishing to audit a class, those wishing to participate in a meeting in person, invited speakers, guest lecturers/speakers in a class, or research collaborators making a short-term visit.

Visiting Scholars, defined as those whose applications have been approved and have a visa stamp, may come to Penn State as planned. Those who have not yet obtained a visa stamp are asked to reschedule their arrival until Feb. 1, 2021. This guidance will be revisited monthly and revised as State Department and other public health guidance evolves.

More information is available in a July 6 directive from the University on meetings, visitors, and Visiting Scholars.

[Top of Page]

Meetings, Events, and Gatherings

Effective July 1, 2020, requests for meetings of more than 10 but fewer than 250 participants must be submitted for approval to unit executives. With approval, meetings can be scheduled at campuses located in counties that are in the “green” phase of reopening under commonwealth guidelines, taking into account the maximum occupancy of the meeting room, which must allow attendees to maintain at least six feet of distance between participants. No large events with more than 249 attendees may be scheduled.

Review full gathering approval process

Details on meetings at campuses that are in the “yellow” or “red” phase, or travel between campuses that are in these phases, can be found in the University's FAQ on meetings and in-person gatherings.

All Penn State employees must follow existing travel guidance.

[Top of Page]

Travel Requests

Effective July 1, 2020, all Penn State employees must seek permission for University-affiliated domestic travel, including air travel, from their unit executive. Employees are asked to limit travel where possible and consider virtual options that might replace or reduce the need to travel.

Travel Request Approval Form

[Top of Page]

Employee Support Resources during the COVID19 Pandemic

Penn State employees have access to many wellness services that could be especially beneficial during the current pandemic, a challenging time full of stress and anxiety. The Employee Support Team has compiled informational pieces to address a variety of needs, such as the Employee Assistance Program, tips for helping your child learn remotely, childcare resources, and more. Please visit the HR Health and Wellness page to see the resources available to PSU employees.

[Top of Page]