Course Policies

Generative AI Use

Learners are advised to carefully review the syllabus for each course to adhere to its generative AI use guidelines.

The University of Illinois offers all enrolled students free access to Google’s Gemini Pro and Microsoft Copilot. More information about these tools can be found here.

When meeting with staff and faculty, learners are expected to attend the virtual meetings themselves. AI tools such as a notetaker are allowed, but the learner themselves must be present for the session to continue.

Soft Launch and Canvas Site Availability

Canvas course sites must be published and made accessible to learners one week before the official

course start date, known as Soft Launch. After the course ends, learners will retain access to the site for an additional 8 weeks, after which access will be removed.

Syllabi Access

This policy outlines how and when learners may access course syllabi for Gies Graduate Programs. Syllabi are not shared prior to enrollment. Once enrolled, learners can access syllabi through Canvas during Soft Launch, and they are encouraged to save a copy while the course site remains active, as access to course materials ends eight weeks after the final day of instruction.

After a course concludes, learners who need a copy of the syllabus may contact Gies Graduate Programs (i-support@illinois.edu) to request a previous syllabus. The course rubric, term and year enrolled must be provided by the learner. Once the team verifies previous enrollment, a syllabus can be shared, subject to availability. This policy ensures consistent practices across programs while respecting faculty discretion in sharing course materials.

Extension

Extensions for coursework are permitted only under extenuating circumstances, as defined by the program. These include unforeseen hospitalization of the learner or an immediate family member (spouse, child, or parent), the death of an immediate family member, or another similar event (e.g., natural disaster). For requests outside these defined circumstances, faculty have the discretion to approve or deny extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Late Work

By default, late submissions are not accepted in iDegree courses. However, faculty may introduce a course-specific late work policy that slightly deviates from this default. When doing so, faculty should consult with a learning designer, course managers, and GGP, and consider factors such as the grading timeline and the need to release grades in a timely manner.

Live Session Attendance

Every Gies Online course includes at least one scheduled live session. The live session is synchronous, meaning learners and instructors meet in real-time, through video conferencing. Each session is 90 minutes in length. Attendance is strongly recommended. It is the learner’s responsibility to review course syllabi for attendance policies. A recording of the live session will be provided in Canvas for learners unable to attend.

Office Hours

Each instructor teaching a course must offer office hours on a regular cadence throughout the duration of the course. These sessions provide opportunities for learners to ask questions, seek clarification, and receive academic support.

Additional Course Materials

In addition to tuition and fees, some courses may have an additional cost based on materials or tools needed for the course.  All additional course materials will be listed in your course syllabi.