Syllabus Requirements
The Syllabus Requirements policy outlines the required information that must be included in each syllabus.
- Information specific to the course: Instructors must include information about the date, time, and delivery method of the course along with a general description of assignments, , schedule of approximate dates, required reading materials, etc.
- Policy Statements: Instructors must also have as part of the syllabus references to, or statements on policies and resources. Instructors may use the Recommended Policy Statements provided as an appendix to the policy. Instructors are encouraged to also discuss elements particularly applicable to their course with their students.
Workload Statement
The Expected Time per Course Credit policy requires that a student workload statement is included for all undergraduate courses demonstrating how the course conforms to the student workload expectations.
Sample statements: Workload Statements
Course Goals and Objectives (May include University SLOs)
Examples might include objectives that roll up to the SLOs
University Resources and Policies
As linked above, the University provides Recommended Policy Statements for Syllabi. These statements are updated as offices or resources change. Instructors are encouraged to review resources and policies as they are updating their syllabi. Please pay specific attention to the following:
- Links are correct and work (Common issues)
- Use disability.umn.edu instead of diversity.umn.edu/disability
- Use mentalhealth.umn.edu instead of www.mentalhealth.umn.edu
- Check the following office names
- Office for Community Standards - rather than “Office of Community Standards” or “Office for Student Conduct and Academic Integrity”
- Disability Resource Center - rather than Disability Services
- Policy names are correct
- “Excused Absences and Makeup Work”
- Detailed COVID-19 statements with info that no longer applies should be removed
Directed Research
- Directed Research Contract (z.umn.edu/Directed_Activity) (This link only works for students. The contract must be initiated by the student.)
- Directed Activity Contract Faculty Guide (z.umn.edu/DAFacultyGuide)
GenAI
Instructors are encouraged to include a clear syllabus statement outlining their expectations. A well-crafted course policy should define acceptable and unacceptable uses of GenAI, reference relevant academic policies, and support students in reaching compliance. Students should consult their instructors if they are unsure what constitutes acceptable use.
Resources:
- GenAI Syllabus Statement Guidance from the Executive Vice President and Provost's website
- Worksheet for developing a GenAI course policy