University-Approved Syllabus Statements

Online Teaching has worked in collaboration with CTL to design a Syllabus Toolkit. Click here to learn more about student-friendly syllabus examples, templates and tips.  

 

Below is a list of University-approved or suggested syllabus statements that you may consider including on your syllabus.

Request for Religious Accommodations

It is required by law that you include a statement explaining this new policy in your syllabus; below is suggested language by the Provost Office in response to House Bill 353, 5/16/2023. 

Syllabus Statement Suggested Language

The University welcomes individuals from all different faiths, philosophies, religious traditions, and other systems of belief, and supports their respective practices. In compliance with University policy and the Ohio Revised Code, the University permits students to request class absences for up to three (3) days, per term, in order to participate in organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or other religious or spiritual organization. Students will not be penalized as a result of any of these excused absences.

The request for excusal must be made, in writing, no later than fourteen (14) days after the first day of instruction in a particular course and include the date(s) of each proposed absence or request for alternative religious accommodation. The request must clearly state that the proposed absence is to participate in religious activities. The request must also provide the particular accommodation(s) you desire. 

You will be notified by me if your request for accommodation is approved, or, if it is approved with modification. I will work with you in an effort to arrange a mutually agreeable alternative arrangement. For more information regarding this Policy you may contact the Student Ombuds (ombuds@kent.edu).

Visit the Office of the Provost Website for more information

Student Accessibility Services Statement

It is suggested that you include the SAS Statement on every syllabus.

Kent State University is committed to inclusive and accessible education experiences for all students. University Policy 3342-3-01.3 requires that students with disabilities be provided reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to course content. Students with disabilities are encouraged to connect with Student Accessibility Services as early as possible to establish accommodations. If you anticipate or experience academic barriers based on a disability (including mental health, chronic medical conditions, or injuries), please let me know immediately. 

Visit Student Accessibility Services (SAS) for more information

Basic Needs Support & Mental Well-being

Endorsed by Faculty Senate, 10/9/2023

Kent State University is committed to supporting the overall well-being of our students. This support may take the form of assisting students with basic needs such as food and housing. We recognize that the absence of secure housing and access to food makes it difficult for students to achieve their best in and out of the classroom. If you, or someone you know, are unable to afford groceries or lack a safe, secure, and reliable place to live, please visit the CARES Center basic needs resource website: https://www.kent.edu/carescenter/basic-needs-resources.

Mental health challenges may also make it difficult for students to reach their full potential. KSU’s mental health and wellness resource page provides information on education and awareness, mental health services, and advocacy intervention. To learn more, please visit Kent State’s mental health resources and support website at https://www.kent.edu/mentalhealth.

Kent Campus Academic Support Statement

Endorsed by Faculty Senate, 4/10/2023

**The statement below was created for Kent Campus syllabi; regional campus faculty should check with their local student support services to see what types of support are available.**

Kent State recognizes many students face challenges and we are committed to supporting your academic journey when you need help. Whether you are struggling in a course, need help writing a paper or actively working to achieve your goals, use the resources below to start building your support system: 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

Endorsed by Faculty Senate, 2/14/2022

Kent State University is committed to the creation and maintenance of equitable and inclusive learning spaces. This course is a learning environment where all will be treated with respect and dignity, and where all individuals will have an equitable opportunity to succeed. The diversity that each student brings to this course is viewed as a strength and a benefit. Dimensions of diversity and their intersections include but are not limited to: race, ethnicity, national origin, primary language, age, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, mental and physical abilities, socio-economic status, family/caregiver status, and veteran status.

Land Acknowledgement Statement

Endorsed by Faculty Senate 10/10/2022

We acknowledge that the lands of Kent State University were the previous homes of people who were removed from this area without their consent by the colonial practices of the United States government. Before removal, these groups created networks that extended from Wyoming to the Florida Coast and Appalachia and to the northern reaches of Lake Superior. These societies included people of the Shawnee, Seneca-Cayuga, Delaware, Wyandots, Ottawa and Miami. We honor their lives – both past and present – and strive to move beyond remembrance toward reflection and responsibility through honest accounts of the past and the development of cultural knowledge and community.

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