Winsted – Northwestern has recently announced its reopening plans for the Fall 2021 semester with more on-ground classes scheduled as the pandemic protocols are adjusted within the state.

“We are excited to have scheduled about half of our classes as on-ground in some capacity,” said Dr. Dave Ferreira, Dean of Academic and Student Affairs. “Our students are eager to get back in the classroom and we have been working to provide safe distancing on-ground class options in most subjects.”

Northwestern’s classes have been primarily online since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, with the exception of some clinicals for both the Allied Health and Veterinary Technology programs where required student clinical testing was managed with strict safety protocols. The summer 2021 schedule is currently an online only option with the same exceptions for clinical testing.

According to recent student polls, students at Northwestern were roughly 50/50 on their preference of how they preferred to attend class. With enrollment down across the country, campus administrators understood that some students may have decided to wait until on-ground classes were an option again.

“Our registration for fall is open and we are hoping those students who prefer on-ground courses will continue their studies with us. The most common question from prospective students is if we will have on-ground classes in the fall. We are happy to be able to offer them this option again in a safe environment,” said Ferreira.

“I am eager to be back on campus this fall,” said Kaylee Naumowicz, Student Senate President. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to build relationships with my peers and educators while getting a hands-on learning experience.”

Space planning to allow for distancing protocols are being managed by adjusting classroom size and shifting regular classes to different locations that will allow safer distancing. “Our students’ safety has been our number one priority throughout the pandemic,” said Dr. Michael Rooke, Northwestern President. “We have continually followed the state guidelines and are now pleased that we can adjust protocols to allow students the options they need. We will continue to manage and adjust as needed.”

Registration for fall is currently open with classes scheduled to start on August 26. For information contact https://nwcc.edu/admissions/