On Thursday, the University of Utah released a statement via Instagram introducing its upcoming class policy, effective spring 2026.
The plan would lead to the scheduling of more classes outside of what it calls “primetime hours,” which the university said via Instagram are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Their goal by fall 2026 is to have “no more than 30%” of classes scheduled during these hours.
The post quickly drew hundreds of critical comments, with students voicing frustration over how the change could disrupt commutes, jobs and already limited parking options.
Student reactions
The policy was implemented in an attempt to circumvent longstanding student concerns about parking. According to the U.S. News and World Report, 83% of students commute from off-campus. Of those 83%, 53% use their personal car to get to campus, according to the U Commuter Services…