COVID-19 Vaccination Required this Fall

As we look forward to resuming more normal operations at Notre Dame of Maryland University this fall, our plans continue to evolve based on effective public health strategies, including increased vaccination. Given the importance of mass vaccination to protect our community, NDMU will require all students coming or returning to campus this fall to be vaccinated. This includes all residential and commuter students, as well as Elkridge and undergraduate and graduate students participating in required professional program clinicals, practicums, internships. Exceptions will be granted only for documented medical and religious reasons.

COVID-19 vaccines (Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson) have been demonstrated to be highly effective against COVID-19. The CDC has reported that the risk of vaccines is very low while the benefits are very high. Currently, over 61% of individuals 18 years and older have received at least one dose nationwide, and 68% in Maryland. Last month, NDMU hosted a vaccination clinic on-campus which vaccinated nearly 4,000 individuals. Just a few days ago, vaccines started becoming available for individuals age 12 and up.

A vaccinated student population on campus will enable NDMU to offer a richer in-person experience, reduce the need for quarantine and isolation after exposure, and let students interact more freely. Additionally, it will also help contribute to the broader health of our Baltimore community.

While the pandemic in the U.S. seems to be on a downward trajectory, NDMU continues to closely monitor and adhere to CDC, State, and local health and safety guidance. As the pandemic evolves, NDMU will continue to respond accordingly.

Documentation & Request for Exemption

Vaccination documentation or request for exemption must be submitted to the University by August 2, 2021. Additional information regarding appropriate documentation and instructions for uploading information to the University will be forthcoming.

Beginning in the fall, individuals that are fully vaccinated will generally not be required to submit a COVID-19 pre-arrival test or participate in random surveillance testing. However, individuals that are granted an exemption for medical/religious reasons, live in the resident halls, or participate in student athletics will still be required to submit a pre-arrival test and participate in random weekly surveillance testing.

Please note that this requirement is in addition to other mandatory vaccines, including influenza vaccination. The influenza vaccination is required by November 1, 2021.

Questions

Your questions are welcome. Please submit all questions regarding vaccination requirements through this form.