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What Is a Syllabus?

By Grace Fleming, About.com

A syllabus is a document that a professor writes and distributes to provide students with an overview of a college course. The syllabus is usually distributed on the first day of class. It contains several parts:

  • The course title and meeting times
  • The name of the professor and his/her contact information
  • Expectations and attendance policies
  • Topics and chapters covered
  • Test dates
  • Other relevant dates
  • Grading policy
  • Required texts and other supplies

The syllabus is your key to success. Use the syllabus as a time management tool and put every important date in your planner right away.

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