Building a Great Syllabus
A syllabus with clear and thoughtful explanations of the course objectives, expectations, and requirements helps both students and instructors stay organized and on track. See CITL's Guidelines to the Organization and Content for a Syllabus to get started or freshen up.
A syllabus is also an excellent tool for constructing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, and can be used to emphasize the instructor's commitment to creating a classroom culture that is respectful of all identities and backgrounds. It should also include resources for students to access if they need support.
Toward this end, the Provost's Office highly recommends the following statements to be included in course syllabi:
- Absence Policy
- Academic Integrity
- Mental Health
- Community of Care
- Students with Disabilities
- Disruptive Behavior
- Emergency Response Recommendations
- Religious Observances
- Sexual Misconduct Reporting Obligation
Need a syllabus review?
Do you have a syllabus question? CITL invites you to get a Syllabus Check-Up with fast, friendly feedback and answers to any syllabus question by email, Zoom, or in person. Use our easy form to upload a syllabus and we’ll respond by the next business day. Working drafts or partial syllabi accepted. Syllabus Check-Ups are offered year-round, and consults are available by request.