A syllabus is an agreement between the instructor and students. A well-constructed syllabus conveys instructor expectations and course requirements to students, stimulates student interest in the course, and clearly outlines student responsibilities during the semester. When these details are included in writing in the syllabus and attention is called to them throughout the semester, faculty are likely to avoid problems later in the semester. When questions arise about the course or syllabus, the department chair, course coordinator, and others who regularly teach the course are available as consultants.
We recommend adding the following language to your syllabus to communicate clarity about student absences relating to religious observances. The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion maintains the list of religious holy days. Contact odei@umsl.edu with questions about reasonable accommodations for religious holy days.
“If you expect to miss class due to a religious observance, let me know early in the semester so that we can discuss your responsibilities and plan so that you meet course obligations and requirements.”
These templates are offered as an aid to faculty. The basic elements may be expanded. Essential elements include:
Other suggested elements include:
Submit a copy of the syllabus for each course to the department office each semester. Some departments expect all syllabi to include standard statements of these policies in each course syllabus. Be certain to check whether this is the case in your program.