Make Your Syllabus Accessible

The syllabus is often the first course document students access. Ensuring it is accessible helps students easily find important information about course expectations, policies, and resources. A well-structured syllabus improves navigation for all students and supports those using assistive technologies.

Step 1: Choose an Accessible Format

The format you choose for your syllabus can affect how easily students can access and navigate the content.

Canvas Syllabus (Recommended)

Using the Canvas syllabus page is often the most accessible option because it uses web-based content that works well with screen readers and mobile devices. Canvas also allows instructors to organize information using headings, lists, and links, which improves navigation. Learn how to use Canvas Syllabus.

Microsoft Word Syllabus

A syllabus created in Microsoft Word can also be accessible when built using proper formatting. Word provides built-in heading styles and an accessibility checker that can help identify potential accessibility issues.

ITLE provides an accessible syllabus template that can help you structure your document.

PDF Syllabus (Not Recommended)

PDF syllabi can sometimes create accessibility challenges, especially if they are created from scanned documents or improperly formatted files. If you use a PDF, ensure it is created from an accessible source document and reviewed using accessibility tools.

When possible, consider providing the syllabus in Canvas or Word format instead of PDF.

Step 2: Apply Accessibility Best Practices

Regardless of the format you choose, these practices can help make your syllabus easier for all students to read and navigate.

Use Clear Structure

Organize your syllabus using headings and clear sections so students can easily locate information.

Common sections include:

• Course description
• Learning objectives
• Course schedule
• Assignments and grading
• Course policies
• Campus resources

Using heading styles helps assistive technologies understand the structure of the document.

Use Readable Formatting

Use simple formatting to improve readability.

Best practices include:

• Use a clear, readable font
• Avoid using color alone to convey meaning
• Use bullet points or numbered lists when appropriate
• Keep paragraphs concise and well organized

Use Descriptive Links

When linking to websites or online resources, use descriptive link text so students know where the link will take them.

Instead of writing:

Click here

Use:

Visit the Student Accessibility Services website

Use Accessibility Checkers

Accessibility checkers can help identify common accessibility issues.

Accessibility checkers are available in:

• Canvas
• Microsoft Word and Office Products
• Google Docs and Workspace

Running these tools before sharing your syllabus can help identify issues such as missing structure, image descriptions, or other accessibility concerns.