Syllabus Essentials

Provide the Course Description

The Higher Learning Commission requires that the syllabus include a word-for-word course description from the university’s course catalog or bulletin. It should also include any prerequisites/co-requisites and the number of credit hours. If there are no prerequisites/co-requisites, the syllabus should state that as well.

Benefits to Students

Providing all relevant course information in one place allows students to easily understand what is expected of them both before enrolling and throughout the course.

Benefits to Instructors

Instructors can design their courses and assessments based on the credit hours and course description, ensuring the workload is appropriate for the assigned credit value.

Rationale

Relevant information that orients students to their courses—such as the syllabus, prerequisites, course-delivery structure, class schedule, and modes of communication—should be provided to students on the institution's learning management platform.

HLC: This item aligns with #6 and #8e on the HLC 21st Century Distance Education Guidelines 2021.

What Reviewers Look For

Reviewers look for a word-for-word course description from the bulletin course description, including prerequisites and credit hour information.

What You Can Do

Familiarize yourself with your course's description and include it in your syllabus.

Example

"Introduction to the fundamentals of industrial energy efficiency and management. Covers the essential concepts, best practices, management systems and current standards to achieve and improve energy efficiency in industrial settings, and utilizes hands-on experiences involving real assessment and analysis of industrial site visits and projects. Prerequisites: IMSE 2030 or instructor's consent."

Catalog course descriptions can be found in the Mizzou Catalog.