For every course you take, the professor will distribute a syllabus (plural: syllabi), usually on the first day of class. The syllabus is like a road map for the course—it is an extremely important document that outlines:
- The instructor’s contact information and office hours
- Topics that will be covered during the semester
- Required readings
- Types of assignments and requirements, and how they will factor into your grade
- Important dates for assignments and exams
- The instructor’s policies and expectations
- Information on proper academic conduct in the course
As a student, it is your responsibility to read carefully through the syllabus on your own. The instructor may go over each section in class, but even if he or she does not, you should review it independently, and ask questions about anything you do not understand.
Different instructors can have very different policies when it comes to grading, course attendance, late assignments, visiting office hours, and other topics, so make sure you have a clear idea of each of your instructors’ expectations.
Here are three example syllabi from real Ohio State courses: