Syllabus Design

Begin with Course Title and Number at the Top of the Syllabus

• Your name as the course instructor, preferred pronouns, email address, office location and office hours in person or via ZOOM
• Course title, number, section
• Days, times, location
• Semester and year
• Indicate that you are using CANVAS and that the Syllabus and Assignments can be found there
• Add link to a welcome video (optional)

Your Course Description:

Begin with your course description.

Entry-level Requirements:

List prerequisites applicable for your course (if any apply).

Required Textbook(s) and Other Required Course Materials:

Consider using free Open Educational Resources (Links to an external site.) (OER) as an alternative to textbooks.

• [Author(s), Title, Year & Edition, ISBN, Link]

• [Author(s), Article Title, Journal Title, Volume, Publication Date, pages, Link].     

Other Required Materials (Ex. Software):

• [Title, Author, Year, Link]

Recommended Materials (Optional):

• [Title, Author, Link]

Add your course learning outcomes. Course learning outcomes describe what your students will be able to do after completing the course. They are often listed as bullet points. 

Writing Good Learning Outcomes

What is expected of the instructor? What is expected of the student? You can list expectations below. Some suggestions are included here.

• I will ensure the accuracy of the course content.
• I will provide clear guidelines for course assignments.
• I will be available to answer your questions and provide meaningful feedback.
• I will do my best to create a rewarding learning experience for all of students.
• I will follow fair and clear grading guidelines for all course assignments.
• I will do my best to prepare you for exams and assignments.

 What is expected of you as a student:

• Attend all class meetings unless you have a valid reason for missing class.
• Spend an average of three (3) hours each week studying and preparing for class.
• Complete all course readings and assignments in a timely manner.
• Participate respectfully and thoughtfully in class and after class discussions.
• Follow the ODU Honor Pledge.
• Do your best to succeed in this course.
• Contact me as your instructor if you have any problems.
   

Sometimes instructors word a syllabus as a series of commands using a legalistic tone. The “promising syllabus” uses positive language and reflects an instructor’s enthusiasm for a course. For example, a “promising syllabus” is student centered and invites students to learn. For example, replace “You are expected to attend all classes” with “You are encouraged to participate in class discussion and the overall learning experience. Studies show that students who attend class are more successful.”

Add Table/Chart showing the week, class meeting days, dates, topics, assignments, and due dates. Providing a detailed course schedule allows your students to understand the course topics, time commitment, and deadlines for completing their assignments.

EXAMPLE:

Course Disclaimer: While it is never advisable to change the syllabus once a semester has begun, you can include language in the syllabus to explain why changes could occur.

Sample: “This schedule is tentative, and it may change during the semester, especially if class is cancelled due to a weather-related or other unexpected events. The content is subject to change as well, depending on students' interests and progress. In some cases, we may need to focus longer on some topics to ensure students understand key concepts. All changes will appear in Canvas.” 

If you alter the syllabus significantly, you should issue a new syllabus.

Every syllabus needs to show how grades will be calculated. You may use percentages or points, but let students know how they will be graded.

EXAMPLE:

Please include a grading scale. Edit to match your department or college preferred scale.

Note:  ODU does not give A+ grades; A is the highest grade. The designation of the grade of "I" indicates assigned work in the course has not been completed. The grade of “I” is assigned only upon the instructor's approval of a student's request. The “I” grade may be given only in exceptional circumstances beyond the student's control, such as serious illness. In such cases, the student is responsible for notifying the instructor. The "I" grade will become an "F" if not removed by the last day of classes of the following semester (excluding the examination period) according to the following schedule: Fall semester "I" grades become "F" grades if not removed by the last day of classes in the spring semester; Spring and summer session "I" grades become "F" grades if not removed by the last day of classes in the fall semester.  An "I" grade may not be changed to a "W" under any circumstances.

Attendance and Participation:
Per university policy, students should attend class. Please review the University attendance policy and determine if you require attendance and how many points will be deducted for absences. Let students know

Include information on your attendance policy.  

Late/Make-up Work Policy:
Add your late/make-up work policy: conditions and criteria.

There are a variety of statements that faculty regularly include on their syllabi. Some are listed below. Some are required; others are optional.

REQUIRED

Academic Integrity

The Office of Student Accountability & Academic Integrity (OSAAI) oversees the administration of the student conduct system as outlined in Board of Visitors Policy 1530: Code of Student Conduct. The mission of OSAAI is to assist students in aligning their actions with ODU values, while providing the tools, support, and learning experiences that promote retention, graduation, and lifelong success. Through interactions with students, staff provides a transformational, individualized experience that equips students with the decision-making skills and critical-thinking tools needed to be successful after college. In support of this mission, the office provides education to the University community and serves as a resource for anyone with inquiries related to student accountability.

The Code of Student Conduct applies to all students. Students include all persons enrolled or registered at the University who have not completed a program of study for which they were enrolled; student status continues whether or not the University’s programs are in session. Examples of violations heard under the Code include, but are not limited to, academic integrity, alcohol, drugs, threats of harm, assault, and sexual violence (Title IX).

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs and activities. Sexual harassment and sexual violence have been recognized as a form of discrimination in violation of Title IX. For information, counseling, or to file a complaint of discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex, individuals may contact Kate Couch, Title IX Coordinator, located in Spong Hall 1201; (757) 683-3141 or titleixcoordinator@odu.edu. 

Honor Code, Honor Pledge, and Monarch Creed

Instructors are encouraged to include statements on their syllabi about academic integrity.  The ODU Honor Code is listed below.

The Old Dominion University Honor Council is dedicated to promoting academic integrity among students at the University. They provide important information about what constitutes cheating and plagiarism. The Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity manages any reports of academic dishonesty or conduct violations.

Like all universities, Old Dominion University expects students to complete their own work. The University Libraries have developed a checklist to help students avoid plagiarism.

Honor Pledge: I pledge to support the honor system of Old Dominion University. I will refrain from any form of academic dishonesty or deception, such as cheating or plagiarism. I am aware that as a member of the academic community, it is my responsibility to turn in all suspected violations of the Honor Code. I will report to a hearing if summoned.

Honor Code: We, the students of Old Dominion University, aspire to be honest and forthright in our academic endeavors. Therefore, we will practice honesty and integrity and be guided by the tenets of the Monarch Creed. We will meet the challenges to be beyond reproach in our actions and our words. We will conduct ourselves in a manner that commands the dignity and respect that we also give to others.

Monarch Creed:  As a member of the Old Dominion University Community, I will:

• Make personal and academic integrity fundamental in all my endeavors.
• Offer service to the University and the community.
• Nurture a climate of care, concern, and civility to others.
• Accept responsibility for all my actions.
• Respect the dignity, rights, and property of all people.
• Commit to the ongoing pursuit of intellectual and personal development.
• Heighten my awareness of individual and cultural similarities and differences.

Title IX

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or misconduct, including sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, stalking, or sexual exploitation, I encourage you to report it to the Title IX Coordinator at www.odu.edu/equity/complaints, titleixcoordinator@odu.edu, or 757-683-3142. Title IX will provide support, connections to resources, and your options for investigation, informal resolution, or neither. Most faculty and staff are “Responsible Employees” and are required to report sexual harassment or misconduct, so I cannot keep information you report to me confidential. Please contact Counseling Services, Student Health Services, the Advocate in the Women and Gender Equity Center, or the YWCA of South Hampton Roads to speak with a confidential resource.

Educational Accessibility and Accommodations

Old Dominion University is committed to ensuring equal access to all qualified students with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Office of Educational Accessibility (OEA) is the campus office that works with students who have disabilities to provide and/or arrange reasonable accommodations.  The OEA also offers two options for syllabus statements that you can use on your syllabus.

Option 1: “Old Dominion University is committed to ensuring equal access to all qualified students with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Office of Educational Accessibility (OEA) is the campus office that works with students who have disabilities to provide and/or arrange reasonable accommodations.

If you experience a disability that will impact your ability to access any aspect of my class, please present me with an accommodation letter from OEA so that we can work together to ensure that appropriate accommodations are available.

If you feel that you will experience barriers to your ability to learn and/or test in my class but do not have an accommodation letter, please consider scheduling an appointment with OEA to determine if academic accommodations are necessary.

The Office of Educational Accessibility is located at 1021 Student Success Center, and its phone number is (757) 683-4655. Additional information is available on the OEA website.”

Option 2: “Old Dominion University is committed to ensuring equal access to all qualified students with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Office of Educational Accessibility (OEA) is the campus office that works with students who have disabilities to provide and/or arrange reasonable accommodations.

Students are encouraged to self-disclose disabilities that the Office of Educational Accessibility has verified by providing Accommodation Letters to their instructors early in the semester in order to start receiving accommodations. Accommodations will not be made until the Accommodation Letters are provided to instructors each semester.

The Office of Educational Accessibility is located at 1021 Student Success Center, and its phone number is (757) 683-4655. Additional information is available on the OEA website.”

Counseling Services

Old Dominion University is committed to advancing the mental health and well-being of its students and recognizes that, at times, personal stressors can interfere with academic performance and daily life. The Office of Counseling Services supports students’ mental and emotional well-being by providing confidential virtual and in-person individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and referral services at no cost. Schedule a same-day/next-day appointment at Make a Counseling Appointment. Counseling Services is located in the Student Recreation and Well-being Center. 

If there is ever an immediate concern for your safety or the safety of another individual, please call 911. In case of a mental health emergency (e.g., thoughts or plans to kill yourself, thoughts of seriously harming others, recent sexual assault). Crisis services are available 24/7 by calling 757- 683-4401 and pressing Option 2 to speak to a crisis counselor. You may also call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) and/or utilize the Crisis Text Line (text “HOME” to 741741). 

Optional But Strongly Recommended:

AI Use Guidelines and Academic Integrity

Depending on your course learning outcomes and expectations, consider adopting or modifying one of the following examples listed on: https://www.odu.edu/artificial-intelligence/education-training/guidelines-for-ai.

University Email Policy

It is recommended that the syllabus include a statement about how student email will be answered. Faculty are only required to respond to student email coming from the official ODU system. It is generally assumed that faculty will answer student email within 24 hours of receiving it. You may explain other schedules for answering email on weekends, for example, or when you are away from the University in your email statement. A syllabus statement could read:

Old Dominion University’s email system is the official electronic mail system for distributing course-related communications, policies, announcements, and other information. In addition, the University email user ID and password are required for authentication and access to many electronic resources (online courses, faculty webpages, etc.).

Message content is the sole responsibility of the individual sending the message, and users must adhere to University Policy 3500: Use of Computing Resources, and Information Technology Standard 09.1.0, Acceptable Use Standard. Users are also encouraged to practice generally accepted online etiquette. Instructors retain the discretion to establish class expectations for email and other electronic messaging communication as a part of the course requirements. Alternative messaging services should be arranged in cases where users’ access to information technology resources is limited or unavailable.

For more information about email and communication policies, see: 

• University Policy 3506: Electronic Mail for Official University Business
• University Policy 3507: 3507: Information Technology Accessibility Policy
• Information Technology Standard 04.2.0 - Account Management Standard
• Information Technology Standard 11.2.0 - Student Email Standard

Withdrawl

A course syllabus represents an agreement between the student and the course instructor regarding course requirements. A syllabus statement about withdrawal could read:

“Enrollment in this course indicates your acceptance of its teaching focus, requirements, and policies. Please review the syllabus and the course requirements as soon as possible. If you feel that the nature of this course does not meet your interests, needs, or expectations, if you are not prepared for the amount of work involved – or if you anticipate that the class meetings, assignment deadlines, or adherence to course policies will be an unacceptable hardship for you – you should drop the course by the drop/add deadline, which is listed in the Old Dominion University Academic Calendar.”

University Email Policy
The Old Dominion University email system is the official electronic mail system for distributing course-related communications, policies, announcements, and other information. In addition, the University email user ID and password are required for authentication and access to many electronic resources (online courses, faculty webpages, etc.). For more information about student email, please visit: Student Computing.

It is recommended that the syllabus include a statement about how student email will be answered.  Faculty are only required to respond to student email coming from the official ODU system.  It is generally assumed that faculty will answer student email within twenty-four hours of receiving it.  You may explain other schedules for answering email on weekends, for example, or when you are away from the university in your email statement.  For more on student email please visit: Information Technology Services Student Email Standards.

Withdrawal
A course syllabus represents an agreement between the student and the course instructor regarding course requirements. A syllabus statement about withdrawal could read: “Enrollment in this course indicates your acceptance of its teaching focus, requirements, and policies. Please review the syllabus and the course requirements as soon as possible. If you feel that the nature of this course does not meet your interests, needs or expectations, if you are not prepared for the amount of work involved – or if you anticipate that the class meetings, assignment deadlines or adherence to course policies will be an unacceptable hardship for you – you should drop the course by the drop/add deadline, which is listed in the ODU Schedule of Classes.” See the Office of the University Registrar for more information.

Syllabus Variation

Please note that a syllabus is reflective of an instructor’s personal teaching philosophy, identity/identities, and interests. Please feel free to craft the syllabus based on what you feel it should look like and contain, acknowledging that some information listed above is required. For example, some syllabi begin with the honor pledge and diversity statement; others include this material at the end. Many faculty use graphic syllabi that contain images, visuals, and links to videos. 

For more information, please refer to the Syllabus section on the Center for Faculty Excellence. 

Telling Students About Yourself

Some faculty include a short paragraph in their syllabi about who they are and their link to the discipline in which they teach. Others include a link to a short welcome video to the course that also includes instructor information.

It is a good practice to review what the Old Dominion University Teaching and Research Faculty Handbook states about syllabi.

Before beginning your course, please review the standards of classroom behavior.

The primary responsibility for managing the classroom environment rests with the faculty. When a student engages in prohibited conduct that disrupts a class, the faculty member may direct the student to leave the classroom for the remainder of the class period. Any longer-term separation from the class must be preceded by a conduct conference or hearing, as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.

Faculty members who encounter disruptive classroom behavior are encouraged to follow the procedures outlined in the Guidelines on Managing Disruptive Students, published in the Old Dominion University Teaching and Research Faculty Handbook.

A student who is dismissed from class may be required to meet with the department or school chair/director, program director, faculty member, or the director of Student Accountability & Academic Integrity (or designee) before being permitted to return to the class from which the student was directed to leave.

Faculty conduct and professionalism are also important considerations when addressing classroom disruptions. Faculty members are encouraged to review the Faculty Code of Conduct.

As per the Old Dominion University Teaching and Research Faculty Handbook section on Course Syllabi:

By the start of each semester, the instructor will provide the students with a syllabus in either electronic or hard copy form. Exceptions to this must be approved in writing by the dean. Course descriptions are found in the Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs.

The syllabus should include:

• Course number(s)
• Days, times, and location of the class, if applicable
• Student meeting hours
• Office location, if applicable
• Catalog description for the course
• Outline of the material to be covered during the semester
• Course objectives
• Course expectations of students
• A statement about academic integrity and accountability
• Instructor’s requirements for student participation
• Required and optional textbooks/readings assignments
• Instructor’s grading system and grading rubric, if applicable
• Attendance policy for the course
• Available academic support services
• Instructor’s AI usage policy
• Accommodation statement.
  • Faculty should consult with the Office of Educational Accessibility website and include one of the recommended statements regarding reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities.

It is always recommended that you proof your final syllabus for accuracy before posting it to Canvas.