As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across Alabama, institutions of higher learning across the state are reevaluating their mask policies.

Alabama State University announced Monday they would require masks in some capacity.

COVID-19 case numbers have increased dramatically since the beginning of July. Hospitalizations reached 1,583 Monday, just shy of last summer’s peak of about 1,600 cases.

Increased hospitalizations:Alabama COVID hospitalizations near 1,600 as surge spreads

At ASU, anyone on campus will be required to wear a mask whether they’re inside or walking across the grounds.

“We are still emphasizing the need to wear masks or face coverings while on our campus,” ASU President Quinton Ross was quoted as saying in a news release. “This protocol applies to all who live, learn and work on our campus. The mandate also applies to visitors to our campus. We believe that the mask-mandatory rule has been a vital part of our success in preventing a major outbreak of COVID-19 on our campus. We do not plan to drop our guard now.”

According to the University, all students are required to submit a negative COVID-19 test result or vaccination card prior to their return to campus. Students can also be reprimanded for not complying with the school’s mask requirement and face possible suspension or removal from university housing upon a third citation.