Carnegie Mellon University
August 07, 2024

Fall Course Planning and Preparations for Pittsburgh-Based Faculty

Dear Pittsburgh-Based Faculty Members and Course Instructors:

As we approach a new academic year, I am writing to share some reminders and information I hope will be helpful as you prepare your course materials and syllabi. Please take a moment to review the information below.

Preparing Your Course Syllabi

Before adding your course syllabi to the syllabus registry by the first day of class, there are several resources and reminders that you can review. As you prepare your syllabi, please:


Considering Times Dedicated to Activities Outside the Classroom

In support of CMU’s mission to provide a holistic educational experience, please:

  • Keep the Fall Break (Oct. 14-18) in mind when planning assignments and projects. This break is meant to be a time for rest and restoration. Avoid assignments, large projects or other activities with deadlines during or immediately following the break.
  • Note that Democracy Day is Nov. 5. This is the second year of our two-year pilot. Classes and course-based activities will not be held before 5 p.m., and the university will offer programming and discussions on civic service and democracy.
  • Limit undergraduate course activities during the moratorium hours of 4:50-6:50 p.m. ET on weekdays to allow our students time to interact in intellectual, cultural, social and recreational university-affiliated activities. Exception requests must be made to the University Registrar for explicit approval.

Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment

At CMU, we seek to be inclusive of diverse populations and perspectives and to ensure everyone has a sense of belonging in our community. As you prepare for your courses and move through the semester, please be aware of the following resources:

Accessing Faculty Resources

The Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty offers support and resources to faculty and academic administrators. The Eberly Center brings pedagogical and technological expertise together to support faculty and graduate students in their roles as educators. These groups are here to help and guide you during this planning time and throughout the academic year. Some of their resources include:

Finally, I invite you to attend my open office hours, where all faculty, staff and students are welcome to tell me what's on your mind and share your experiences, ideas and aspirations for CMU.

I look forward to seeing you all soon as we begin a new academic year and thank you for everything you do to make CMU an exceptional place for our students to learn.


Sincerely,

James H. Garrett Jr.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer