Instructors are expected to distribute a course syllabus on the first day of class. The course syllabus should contain information noted in the three sections below.
You should also be aware that the University Senate is considering a measure which would require the syllabus for an undergraduate course to be available significantly in advance of the start of the term, so that students might use it to help them make a decision about registering for the course.
Also see Useful Information for Preparing the Syllabus.
Course Information
- Course Title
- Course and Section Number
- Meeting Location and Times
- Name of Instructor
- Instructor Contact Information
Office phone number and address, email address; office hours - ELMS Site or Course Webpage
- Required Textbooks
Include ISBN numbers if available - Required Technology
For example, personal response devices (clickers), calculator, or software package - Prerequisites
- Method for Communication with Students Outside the Classroom
Regarding class cancellation, room change, or other timely announcements - Emergency Protocol
Means by which courses will be continued / completed in case of an emergency that closes the University for an extended period of time
Course Description, Goals, and Expectations
- General Description of the Course
- Statement of Course Goals and / or list of Student Learning Outcomes
Refer to University, Department, and/or General Education Learning Outcomes when applicable. - Course Schedule
Outline of activities for each course meeting - Due Dates
Specify Major Scheduled Grading Events (including exam dates and the final exam) and due dates for other assignments. - Expectations for Students
Expectations for participation, contribution to group work, and other information supporting a successful student experience in the context of the course. - Grading Procedures
Include how assignments and exams are weighted within the course grade. Indicate how the final course letter grade will be determined.
Course Procedures and Policies
- Course Attendance Policy
- Include a course policy that is consistent with that stated in the "Attendance and Assessment / Examinations" section of the Undergraduate Catalog.
- Specify the nature of the in-class participation expected and the effects of absences on the student's grade.
- Include an explanation of how religious holidays, inclement weather, excused absences and make-up exams will be handled. Click here to see possible language for establishing expectations for medically necessary absences.
- Written Absence Policy
Include a course policy that is consistent with the "Attendance and Assessment / Examinations" section of the Undergraduate Catalog and as covered by University Policies on Religious Observance and Student Medically Necessitated Absence from Class. - Academic Integrity Expectations
Include the Honor Pledge and course specific standards related to academic integrity. - Arrangements for Students with Disabilities
Include information about how students may receive appropriate accommodations for disabilities. - Copyright Notice
Indicate that class lectures and other materials are copyrighted and that they may not be reproduced for anything other than personal use without written permission from you.