Academics & Research

As a student-centric research university, Stevens considers academic matters to be of the highest importance. With the health and safety of our faculty, staff and students as our top priority, Stevens made the determination that for the fall 2020 semester, only first-year students, new transfer students, and new graduate students would have the opportunity for an on-campus learning experience.  These students would study through a mix of in-person, socially-distanced hybrid learning and online instruction.  All other students continued to pursue their education online.

For spring 2021, we are formulating plans that allow for a moderate increase in the number of students and activities on campus. In addition to the students who were permitted on campus in fall 2020, we are welcoming:

• First-year undergraduate and transfer students who are starting in the spring 2021 semester
• Senior undergraduate students who are in their last undergraduate semester in spring 2021 as per an approved application for candidacy
• Senior undergraduate students who are in their last undergraduate semester in Summer 2021 as per an updated study plan
• New graduate students who matriculated in the fall 2020 semester
• New graduate students matriculating in the spring 2021 semester

As was the case in fall 2020, all students will continue to have the option for completely online learning.

It is important to underscore that all our plans are subject to change based on health conditions and infection rates at Stevens and within the local community, as well as state and federal government guidance.  

Change in Spring 2021 Academic Calendar

The spring 2021 Academic Calendar will be modified to allow ample time for travel, preparation and the potential need for quarantining and COVID-19 testing prior to the start of the semester.  Major changes include: 

• The first day of classes will be February 1, 2021, postponed from the original start date of January 19, 2021. 
• Spring break is eliminated.  Three instructional days off will be offered during the semester on Monday, February 15, 2021 (President’s Day); Wednesday, March 10, 2021; and Friday, April 2, 2021 (Good Friday).
• The last day of classes will be Friday, May 7, 2021, postponed from the original date of Wednesday, May 5, 2021.
• Undergraduate reading day will be Monday, May 10, 2021, instead of Thursday, May 6, 2021.
• The final exam period will be shortened to Monday, May 10, 2021 through Wednesday, May 19, 2021, instead of Thursday, May 6, 2021 through Wednesday, May 19, 2021.
• In the event of inclement weather, all courses will be held remotely, avoiding the need to cancel and reschedule classes.

The revised academic calendar is posted online.