A Navigate U Step-by-Step Guide

Syllabus Transparency

Overview

The University of Utah is working with units to improve the posting of syllabi to advance student success e:orts. Beginning in Spring 2025, we anticipate all instructors use the CIS system to post their syllabi. This will move all units into compliance with the existing requirement that syllabi be posted at least one week before the first week of class (Policy 6-100 III.C.5). This policy reflects the University of Utah’s commitment to fostering an academic environment that supports student success, faculty engagement, and institutional excellence. In particular, early syllabus posting supports student success by allowing students time to consider the course expectations, organize their calendar and daily time, obtain materials, and familiarize themselves with the course prior to the semester or session start.

Syllabus Posting for Spring 2025 and beyond

According to University of Utah policy 6-100 (Instruction and Evaluation), III.C.5, instructors must make syllabi available “at least one week before the first day of class”:

“Essential course information shall be made available to enable students to make informed decisions in choosing among courses and setting schedules. It shall be made available at least one week before the first day of class in any semester or session in which the course is offered, if an instructor has been assigned to the course three or more weeks before that first day, and otherwise as early as is practical. The essential course information may be made available as part of the course syllabus or separately, and should include (a) the goals and objectives of the course, (b) the course expectations, including the activities essential for earning credit and those on which grading is based, and (c) if applicable a preliminary schedule for the major examinations and assignments.”

Syllabus Templates and CIS Posting Steps

Assistance on syllabus design and template language can be found on the Martha Bradley Evans Center for Teaching Excellence website, along with the CIS posting steps.

Resource for Posting Syllabi

If instructors have any challenges with process or Departments/Colleges/Schools wish to establish delegates for posting syllabi, please contact Student Systems in the Office of the Registrar at studentsystems@utah.edu.

By following this guide, the University of Utah can more e:ectively support students and faculty. Associate Deans of Academic Affairs (or comparable positions) and Department Chairs are expected to ensure this element of Policy 6-100 is adopted for Spring 2025 and beyond. The Office of the Registrar will track participation and work with Associate Deans and Department Heads to address noncompliance. This initiative will support institutional retention and completion goals and effectively help to guide students through their academic journey and ensure every student can have an exceptional educational experience. #NavigateU