It will be "business as usual" at the University of Bolton in September regardless of any future lockdown measures, the vice-chancellor has said.
Students are currently taking classes virtually using video calls and the campus is not set to reopen until the government gives the all clear.
But Prof George Holmes has urged prospective students to continue to apply for courses beginning in the next academic year and says the university could operate a social distancing system if the lockdown is still in place.
He said plans were firmly in place to open up the campus and provide teaching in September “whatever form the Covid-19 pandemic takes at that time".
Prof Holmes said: “We know that there is great uncertainty among those looking to start an undergraduate or postgraduate degree course in the autumn.
“However, it will be business as usual at the University of Bolton.
“We are open for applications from students interested in starting degree courses, including Masters Degrees, with us in September 2020 and would be delighted to receive an application from you.”
He added: “If social distancing measures need to be in place when the new academic year begins, we will be fully compliant with innovative ways to keep our students and staff safe on campus.
"We are working hard to ensure that your course can still start regardless.”
Prof Holmes said he sympathised with those experiencing disruption to their studies or those who may have had A level exams cancelled but that people should still apply.
He said: “We understand the potential impact of this and I can assure you that any applicants who receive an offer from us will not be disadvantaged as a result of school or college closures or A level exam cancellations.
“We are following advice from UCAS, the Department of Education and exam boards and will advise accordingly where we can.”
The university has organised two virtual Open Days on June 2 and July 1, from 10am-1pm, when academic staff and students, both Undergraduate and Postgraduate, will be on hand to chat with prospective applicants online.
To book a place, please visit www.bolton.ac.uk/opendays, or email: opendays@bolton.ac.uk.
