Sent on behalf of Jamie Parson, Senior Vice Provost
Dear Colleagues,
As we prepare to wrap up the spring semester, I want to share updates regarding two recent policies from the UNC System:
- Syllabus Policy, UNC System Regulation 400.1.6
- Academic Freedom, Chapter VI of The Code
While these updates stem from Systemwide compliance, they also offer an opportunity to enhance transparency and provide greater clarity regarding faculty rights and responsibilities. I recognize that process changes require additional time and energy. Our goal is to ensure you feel supported and informed by providing the resources you need to stay focused on teaching excellence and scholarship.
Syllabus Policy, UNC System Regulation 400.1.6
UNC System Regulation 400.1.6 Publication of Academic Calendars, Grading Polices and Related Materials classifies course syllabi as “directed works” owned by the university and requires that these documents be treated as public records.
To align with UNC System requirements, App State will launch a searchable public database beginning fall 2026 to improve transparency for students and aid in degree planning.
To populate this database, we require the following elements for each course:
- Course name, prefix and description.
- Goals, objectives, student learning outcomes and/or student expectations.
- An explanation of student performance assessment (grading scale, assignment breakdown and attendance/participation policies).
- A list of all course materials (digital or physical) that students are required to purchase and textbooks assigned via App State's textbook rental program.
- A statement noting that the course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis and debate and that the inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.
Submit Fall 2026 Course Information by July 1
Over the next week, the Office of Institutional Research, Assessment and Planning (IRAP) will email faculty an individual Qualtrics link for each course they are scheduled to teach in fall 2026. The content from these forms will be used to populate the searchable public database.
Faculty will need to complete the form by July 1.
- Timely completion is essential to ensure our university remains in compliance with System regulations and that our students have the information they need to succeed.
- The July 1 internal deadline will allow Academic Affairs to follow up with faculty who require assistance ahead of the Systemwide deadline.
- To ensure App State meets these requirements, we will follow up in accordance with our Faculty Handbook and AASOPs as needed.
2026 Syllabus Policy Training Workshops
Academic Affairs will host workshops in April and May to help facilitate this requirement — in-person and online sessions are available.
Register for a 2026 Syllabus Policy Training Workshop
Additional resources: A brief instructional video will be available on the Academic Affairs website by late May. For personalized support, faculty may submit a CETLSS Connection Request.
Academic Freedom, Chapter VI of The Code
The updated language of Chapter VI of The Code provides:
- a more robust description of Academic Freedom rights;
- statements on classroom practice, course development, research and scholarly inquiry; and
- guidance on what Academic Freedom does not include.
Spring 2026 Academic Freedom Sessions
Academic Affairs, in partnership with the Office of General Counsel, will host sessions to help our community navigate these changes. Our goal is to provide the clarity needed for faculty to continue their scholarly inquiry and teaching with confidence.
Two online sessions are available:
- Tuesday, April 14, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
- Thursday, April 30, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Register for a Spring 2026 Academic Freedom Session
Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and your teaching and scholarship. We are committed to supporting you as we integrate these new processes into our shared mission of academic excellence and student success. If you have additional questions, please contact me at andersonja2@appstate.edu.
Best regards,
Jamie Parson
Senior Vice Provost
Faculty Affairs and Professional Development