It has been a year like no other for the U of A community. As we head into winter break (Dec. 23 - Jan. 11) for students and winter closure (Dec. 25 - Jan. 3) for staff, we are also still contending with the COVID-19 pandemic. With all the changes around us these last few weeks, below is a quick reference to help guide you to U of A resources you may need during this holiday season.
Before we begin, a quick reminder that remote delivery continues for most exams and Winter 2021 classes. Winter Term starts on Jan. 11, 2020. At this time, there have been no changes to the list of classes that have been approved for in-person learning in Winter 2021. Bear Tracks has been updated with all Winter 2021 individual schedules. The Campus Life webpage will continue to be updated if changes are made to classes, exams, or other aspects of student life.
On campus during the holiday season, activity will be minimal with the temporary safety measures in effect at the U of A Dec. 14 - Jan. 11. If you need to access buildings and services on our campuses in the meantime, here is what to expect:
How to access buildings
From now until Dec. 23, you can still use your ONEcard to access the buildings listed here. During the winter break, beginning Dec. 24 and up until Jan. 3, building access will be minimal and most buildings are closed to the public, including SUB. SUB is closing at 11 pm on Dec. 23 and will reopen Jan. 4 at 7 am.
ONEcard access will be reinstated to buildings beginning Jan. 4 - always check this site for the most up to date information.
If you do need to visit a campus in-person, you must obey all official university safety measures and provincial health orders, and wear a mask. View the Campus Safety Checklist to learn more on how to prepare to visit our campuses.
For off-campus staff, one-time and occasional visits to campus are not permitted during our current temporary safety measures, unless they meet the criteria and are approved by a supervisor.
Common areas, retail, and services
On-campus student common areas and services are limited. Click here to view a list of building closures and business operating hours, including SUB stores and services like the Bookstore, during the holiday season.
Available dining services are take-out only.
Individual study and computer spaces are available in Cameron Library Building by appointment - you can book your space here. Cameron Library will close on Dec. 22 at 6 pm and reopen on Jan. 11. Additional computer labs are available in ECHA and CAB - more info here.
Temporarily closed
All University of Alberta sport and recreation facilities, services, and programs are closed until at least Jan. 12.
Most library locations remain closed. Return dropboxes and curbside pickup are closed until at least Jan. 13.
In-person university events, meetings, and gatherings are not permitted at this time.
Virtual resources remain available:
• Campus & Community Recreation
• Library
Residences
All residences remain open; temporary mandatory restrictions are in place until at least Jan. 12.
The Isolation Accommodation Program is available to all members of the U of A community, even throughout winter closure. New bookings will close on Dec. 18 and reopen on Jan. 4.
International student services
International students planning to travel to Canada need to book their Isolation Accommodation Program or confirm their Off-Campus Quarantine Plan before December 17. Both programs enable students to meet Canada's mandatory 14 day quarantine requirement for international travellers. The programs will remain open to support students arriving and quarantining during the University winter closure.
The last day to access International Student Services online advising is Dec. 23. Online advising will reopen on Jan. 4. Check out this list of resources for international students over the winter break.
Student support services
As usual, Student Connect will also be unavailable during winter closure, Dec. 25 - Jan. 3. However, they will be ready to assist students again starting Jan. 4.
Academic and wellness support services are also paused during winter closure Dec. 25 - Jan. 3. Please check the availability of the service you want to access, as some closure dates vary. Emergency supports will continue to be offered; visit the Need Help Now? page or call 2-1-1, who can refer you to both off and on-campus services. There are also a number of supports for students living outside of Alberta.
Employee support services
The Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call 780-428-7587 to make an appointment.
Emergency services
A quick reference of how and when to contact a few key U of A emergency resources during out of office hours below. Or, see the full listing of U of A Emergency Information and Procedures.
Fire, Police, Ambulance, or Hazardous Spills: call 911, then call U of A Protective Services at 780‑492‑5050 (24 hrs).
In the Field or International Locations: Call local emergency services, then call U of A Protective Services at 780-492-5050 (24hrs).
Urgent Residence or Maintenance Needs: call Campus Control Centre at 780-492-4833 (24hrs).
Information Services & Technology: call 780-492-9400 or consult IT Assistance.
Mental health emergency: If there is no imminent threat to life or safety, call the 24-hour Canadian Mental Health Association Distress Line at 780-482-4357. If there is immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, contact 911.
COVID-19 Rapid Response support for on-campus supervisors, instructors and activity coordinators: U of A Rapid Response Triage Team, phrt.triage@ualberta.ca