A strong syllabus works as the foundation for the information conveyed through your course and as a standalone document. This resource was developed to help instructors create an effective course outline based on the principles of UDL (Universal Design for Learning). For additional helpful tips on building your course outline, click on the
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Faculty of Example
School or Department of Example
ABC 101: Course Title
Semester and Year, Section
Classroom Number, Class
Time(s), Place(s),
Instructor information
- (416) 979 - 5000 ext. ______
- Email address: example@torontomu.ca
Email policy
Include any instructions or limitations on students鈥� use of email in the course, as well as any preference for other means of contact. For more ideas on how to more efficiently deal with communications from students, refer to
Course description
Copy and paste the course description from the 91滴滴 Calendar, which typically includes the course designation (Professional, Professionally-Related or Liberal Studies), hours per week, prerequisites, anti-requisites, and any other course exclusions. Course descriptions for Undergraduate and Graduate Studies are available at 91滴滴 Calendar. (opens new tab)
Course overview
Teaching methods
A description of the teaching method(s) and technology that will be used.
- You can also describe the format the class will take, for example, laboratory, studio, problem-based learning, seminar, field work, or You can also note if lecture content will be live, pre-recorded or if live sessions will be recorded depending on in person or remote learning.
- If you will be using technology, please indicate which technologies you will use (e.g. Zoom, Google Meet, Google Suite). For remote teaching clarify how the course will be delivered (asynchronously vs synchronously) and which tools will be used for each aspect of the course. You can also note if lecture content will be live, pre-recorded or if live sessions will be recorded depending on in person or remote learning.
- In cases where there are multiple sections of the same course that share a common outline, students should be provided with at least a brief instructor-specific version.
Variations within a course
In cases where there are multiple sections of the same course that share a common outline, students should be provided with at least a brief faculty/contract lecturer-specific version.
Course materials
Information about textbooks, course readings, and other or and how to access them. Specific details on any in course work, assignments, or exams.
Textbook and learning material costs
The Ministry of Colleges and Universities now requires that Course Outlines must include individual pricing for any textbook or other learning material that is mandatory or optional for which a student would incur additional costs. In the event that the cost for the current year is not available at the time the course outline is prepared, the most recent cost should be included with a note indicating that it may change. Also, please include information as to whether there are any restrictions that would prevent a student from using a second-hand copy of the textbook or other learning material. See the for more information.
Course learning outcomes
describe what students are expected to have learned or achieved; as a result, they usually describe what students will be capable of doing, or what evidence will be provided to substantiate learning.
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Faculty of Example
School or Department of Example
Topics and course schedule
and corresponding readings (as well as any field trips or required activities outside of class time). Ensure your
| Week | Date | Readings | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | September 9 |
|
Chapter readings: 1 & 2 |
| Week 2 | |||
| Week 3 | |||
| Week 4 | |||
| Week 5 | |||
| Week 6 | |||
| Week 7 | |||
| Week 8 | |||
| Week 9 | |||
| Week 10 | |||
| Week 11 | |||
| Week 12 |
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Faculty of Example
School or Department of Example
Evaluation
- A list and (at least tentative) schedule of all exams, and other work to be graded, and
- The exam, and/or
- A notice if any unscheduled evaluations will be used as part of the grading scheme (e.g. pop quizzes).
- An indication of approximately when the first assessment results or other grades will be returned to students (this should be before the last date to drop the class).
- A statement regarding how late work will be evaluated.
- For online or hybrid courses, a note on whether the final exam will be conducted online or in person.
Assessment weighting breakdown
| Evaluation component | Due date | Percentage of final grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total: 100% |
University policies
Students must be reminded that they are required to adhere to all relevant university policies found in their online course shell in D2L and/or on the
Missed class and/or evaluations
Academic Consideration Requests
Health certificates
Religious observance
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Faculty of Example
School or Department of Example
Academic integrity and plagiarism
Originality detection
An indication of any requirement for the submission of work to an electronic originality detection service or the use of a virtual proctoring system.
Generative AI
An indication of the course policy on generative AI, including expectations around the appropriate and inappropriate use of generative artificial intelligence. See examples of Include the Academic Integrity Office's student facing resource:
Virtual proctoring
Important resources available at 91滴滴
Addressing academic concerns
Students are expected to address any questions or concerns through open and timely communication with the course faculty/contract lecturer, as soon as they arise. If a concern cannot be resolved through this initial communication or if additional support is required, students are encouraged to reach out to their academic program advisor or the chair/director of the teaching department for further guidance. These individuals can help provide clarity, facilitate next steps, and ensure that matters are reviewed in a fair and appropriate manner.
91滴滴 Libraries
provide and individual consultation appointments. There is a drop-in Research Help desk on the second floor of the library, and students can use the Library's to speak with a librarian, or to meet in person or online.
Student Life and Learning Support
Student Life and Learning Support offers group-based and individual help with writing, math, study skills, and transition support, as well as resources and checklists to support students as online learners.
Copyright
View and
Academic integrity
View academic integrity information for faculty/contract lecturers and academic integrity information for students.
Other
- on significant dates, academic standings, exam schedules, etc., visit the Current Students website.
- If taking a remote course, familiarize yourself with the tools you will need to use for remote learning. The Remote Learning guide for students includes guides to completing quizzes or exams in D2L Brightspace, with or without Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor, using D2L Brightspace, joining online meetings or lectures, and collaborating with the Google Suite.
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Faculty of Example
School or Department of Example
Accessibility
- Similar to an use this section to describe your commitment to making this course accessible to students with disabilities. Improving the accessibility of your course helps minimize the need for accommodation.
- Outline any technologies used in this course and any known accessibility features or barriers (if applicable).
- Describe how a student should contact you if they discover an accessibility barrier with any course materials or technologies.
Academic Accommodation Support
Academic Accommodation Support (AAS) is the university's accessibility services office, supporting students with disabilities. AAS works with students, faculty, and staff to create inclusive learning environments, reduce barriers, and promote accessibility across the university.
If you have (or suspect you may have) a disability, AAS can provide consultation, guide you through registration, develop accommodation plans where appropriate, and connect you with supports and services. For information about eligibility, documentation requirements, registration, deadlines, and available services, visit the Academic Accommodation Support website.
Academic Accommodations (for students with disabilities) and Academic Consideration (for short-term extenuating circumstances) are governed by different university policies. Learn more about each process and how to access support. Students registered with AAS may request academic consideration (related or unrelated to their disability) if they experience extenuating circumstances that impact their ability to meet their shorter term academic obligations. This includes short term physical or mental health issues that are sudden/acute (e.g, the flu), unexpected illness or injury, hospitalization or treatment, and significant aggravation of a pre-existing condition. Please see Policy 167: Academic Consideration for more information and details.
Please note that there is no accommodation for missing/rescheduling or reweighting of tests - this is considered an alternate arrangement. Any student who misses a test/exam will be directed to submit an ACR to explore if possible alternate arrangements under Policy 167: Academic Consideration can apply.
Wellbeing Support
At 91滴滴, we recognize that things can come up throughout the term that may interfere with a student鈥檚 ability to succeed in their coursework. These circumstances are outside of one鈥檚 control and can have a serious impact on physical and mental well-being. Seeking help can be a challenge, especially in those times of crisis.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 911 and go to the nearest hospital emergency room. You can also access these outside resources at anytime:
- Distress Line: 24/7 line for if you are in crisis, feeling suicidal or in need of emotional support. Phone: 416鈥�408鈥�4357
- 24/7-hour line for postsecondary students (phone: 1-866-925-5454)
- 24/7 access to confidential support through counsellors via the
If non-crisis support is needed, you can access these campus resources:
- Centre for Student Development and Counselling: 416-979-5195 or email csdc@torontomu.ca
- Consent Comes First (Office of Sexual Violence Support and Education): 416-919-5000 ext: 553596 or email osvse@torontomu.ca
- Medical Centre: call (416) 979-5070 to book an appointment.
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