A word from the Chair addressing department operations in regards to COVID-19

A Word from the Chair

Last updated: March 18, 2020

The global coronavirus pandemic has raised fears of the consequences of many normal operations at a college campus, such as attending lectures or holding events. As a precaution, UCSB has suspended in person lectures through the spring quarter.
 
The Department of Political Science is working to ensure continuity of instruction across all classes. At this point, we do not anticipate cancelling any classes, but many will need to be redesigned in order to comply with these precautions. Instructors will update enrolled students directly as we figure out fixes for section participation, lectures, and class assignments. Check your email frequently!
 
At this time, we have only one confirmed case in Santa Barbara County; so far none related to the campus itself. However, in the interests of slowing the spread of the disease and keeping staff safe, we are drastically limiting in-person staff time on campus. If you have questions or requests, please direct your email to the appropriate staff person (or peer advisors) and they will make every effort to help you.
 
We ask for your patience in these trying circumstances. We understand that people have uncertainty and anxiety over this unprecedented situation. We want to do our part in preventing the spread of this disease and to protect students, staff and faculty from the risk of exposure.

You may also visit UCSB's COVID-19 Information for the UC Santa Barbara Campus webpage here for more information regarding What UC Santa Barbara is Doing, Coronavirus Symptoms and Prevention, What Should I Do if I Think I Have Coronavirus, Counseling and Community, and Travel Advisories.