As students select courses for upcoming semesters, course syllabi can serve as guides to help them make informed decisions. Some colleges and departments maintain copies of syllabi online so students can use them to learn about the courses they offer. For example, College of Health and Human Development syllabi, Math Department syllabi, and Statistics Department syllabi are available online. To learn where you can access syllabi, contact the instructor or the department offering the course.

Evaluate courses and semester plans using the syllabus checklist.

The list below is designed to help students evaluate courses and determine if their semester plan is realistic. In addition to assessing each course, students are encouraged to record all course assignments in an academic planner to evaluate their semester work load. If students are concerned the semester plan is not realistic, they should consult with an academic adviser to consider alternatives.

• Consider goals and objectives
  Is the description of the course what you expected?
  Is the course a good match for your abilities, interests, and goals?
• Evaluate texts, reading assignments, and required materials
  How much are you required to read each week?
  What books are required?
  If possible, look at the textbooks (on the web, at the bookstore, or in the library) to answer these questions:
  Does the content look interesting?
  Is the reading easy or challenging?
  How much new vocabulary will you need to learn?
  How much are you required to purchase?
• Determine how your learning will be tested
  How many quizzes and tests will you have?
  How much material is covered on each test?
  Is the kind of testing something you're good at (essays/multiple choice/short answer)?
  What percentage of your final grade is each test?
  Are the tests in class or in the testing center?
• Review assignments
  Are assignments and expectations spelled out in the syllabus?
  Do the assignments sound interesting and manageable?
  How much writing is required?
  How do assignments factor into your grade?
  How much work is online?
  How much work is in groups?
• Know about grading
  How will your grade be determined?
  Will the forms of evaluation allow you to demonstrate your learning?
• Consider the course instructor
  How accessible is the teacher?
  What forms of communication does the teacher prefer?
  Does the instructor communicate in a way that works for you?
  What are the prof's policies on absences, being late for class, making up work/tests?
• Check out resources and help
  Does the course have a companion website?
  Are there suggested ways of studying?
  Is supplemental instruction available?