Summary

The Graduate Course Management Policy outlines what is expected of instructors who teach graduate courses at McMaster University. Its purpose is to ensure that students receive clear information about course content, expectations, assessments, and deadlines so they can plan and manage their time effectively. The Policy applies to all graduate-level courses and is intended for instructors, staff, and academic units involved in course delivery. It emphasizes the need for timely feedback, transparent grading, and clear communication through course outlines and program handbooks.

Key requirements include having a detailed course outline available before or at the first class, containing information such as course objectives, evaluation methods, assignment deadlines, and academic policies. Instructors must assess students more than once per term, use plagiarism detection tools appropriately, and handle personal information in compliance with privacy legislation. Course outlines must be consistent across sections, updated as needed, and stored for at least one year. The Policy also addresses due date restrictions, conflict of interest guidelines, and the protection of student privacy.

Refer to the full policy below for complete details.

Approved by: Senate
Date of Most Recent Approval: April 9, 2025, effective May 1, 2025
Responsible Executive: Vice-Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies
Policy-Specific Enquiries: School of Graduate Studies