Duke University announced Friday that all students must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination before they may return for the fall semester.
University President Vince E. Price said in a statement that students at each level must follow the new guidelines for registering for classes.
“Duke research has played an important role in the development of these vaccines, and we are committed to giving students and staff access to vaccines,” the statement said.
It goes on to say: “Looking ahead, we know that widespread vaccination will be the only way to return to a normal and robust campus life.”
Exceptions will be made for students with documented medical and religious exemptions, Price said.
Those struggling to access a vaccine can get one through the university while stocks last.
“The past fourteen months have been one of the most difficult and exhausting in the history of our university. Today I ask you to take the next step with me to ensure the safety and viability of our university community,” Price said.
The University of North Carolina’s new policy comes as more than 179 million doses are administered as vaccination efforts across the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Duke joins a number of other universities to require COVID-19 vaccination before students can return to campus.