How to Write a Syllabus

Creating a syllabus is a key component for classroom success.  The following module goes over how to write an effective syllabus, including its purpose, sections to include, tone, and other factors worth considering. 

Purpose

A syllabus’s purpose is to provide students the necessary details, expectations, and responsibilities regarding their experience in a course. The number one rule of your syllabus is to write it for your students. As you go through each section of it, ask yourself if a piece of content serves students as they navigate your course?

In fact, “navigate” is an appropriate term, as your syllabus is best compared to a guide or map. Although it can be used to reinforce policies and expectations set between professors and students, a syllabus is not a contract nor a legal document. Instead, consider this a roadmap that will lead your students toward success.

After you create your syllabus, share it with your students as soon as you are able so as to allow them the most time to orient themselves in your course and be prepared to succeed.