University Approved Syllabus Statements
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.
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 semester, 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, during the first fourteen (14) days of the semester 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 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 required by law that you include this statement in your syllabi.
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
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. Please check out these resources to help as you build your support system:
- What is the first step I should take to get academic support for this class?
- Reach out to your instructor!
- Where can I get help from another student who earned a good grade in this class?
- Where can I go if I need assistance with how to study and meet my academic goals?
- Who can review my writing and help me properly cite my work?
- Where should I go when I don’t know where to go?
- Academic Advising
- TRIO Student Support Services
- There may be additional resources, just ask.
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.