Course outlines are available for each course. They are reviewed periodically and are kept on file in the office of the department chair. In addition, during the first week of classes each semester, the instructor will provide the students with a syllabus. Exceptions to this must be approved in writing by the dean. Normally a syllabus will include an outline of the material to be covered during the semester, the instructor's requirements for student participation, assignments, the nature of the instructor's grading system, and the attendance policy for the course.