Writing Course Descriptions

The course description orients students by outlining the rationale for the course subject or theme, framing a brief overview of the key content, knowledge and skills to be learned and stating the major learning strategies and activities that students will experience.

The course description is reviewed by prospective students on Algonquin College’s website, students applying for transfer credits, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) candidates, Credential Validation Services/Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD), educational institutions and employers. Therefore, information must be clear, current and accurate.

Course Description Format

WHY? Purpose or rationale for the course/subject area covered (1st sentence)
WHAT? Key content/principles/topics to be learned (2nd sentence and/or 3rd sentence)
HOW? Types of major learning activities and student experiences in the course (last sentence) (case study, mock interviews, role-playing, group discussions, etc.)

Examples:

GEN2007 Community Service

Volunteerism not only benefits a community, it can broaden the worldview of the volunteer. Students who give their time and energy to a particular cause, gain an opportunity to reflect on the value of the volunteer in contemporary society. Through research and discussion, students consider different types of volunteer settings, trace the history of volunteer organizations, examine the various roles volunteers play within society, and reflect on ethical issues.

GED5003 The Science of Play

Toys and games, key components of play, have evolved from homemade trinkets to highly engineered items in a multi-billion-dollar industry. Students explore the connections between technology and play, specifically the benefits, drawbacks and ethical implications of toy and game design. Case studies allow students to consider familial, cultural, sociological, and other influences upon toy and game design over the last century. Through discussion, analysis and workshops, students move towards designing their own toy or game, or modifying an existing one.

ZOO2000 Animal Husbandry I

Animals held in captivity depend on caregivers to meet basic needs and remain healthy. Students examine key principles and concepts for ensuring the proper care and maintenance of domesticated and wild animals in zoos, aquariums and theme parks. Special attention to the nutritional requirements of ruminants and the social interactions of herd and pack animals encourages the adoption of husbandry best practices. Through case study analyses, group discussions and site visits, students focus on the diverse needs of various animal species.

The following are tips for writing a course description:

  • The course description should be no longer than 100 words.
  • Write from a student-centered perspective.
  • Use present tense and active voice.
  • Use clear and simple sentence structure and language.
  • Use gender neutral language.
  • Use common terms that prospective students understand.
  • Use industry-approved technical terms and acronyms when appropriate.
  • Use generic terms when referencing software. Only use specific software names if they are the central focus of the course or if they are required for course delivery.
  • Course titles, numbers and levels in which the course is offered are not included in the course description as they are indicated elsewhere.
  • The intended course delivery mode (hybrid, online, in-class) are not included in a course description.
  • Prerequisites and corequisites are not included in the text of the course description (GeneSIS has functionality for establishing prerequisites, corequisites and equivalencies). With Genesis, a student’s progression from course to course is driven by the prerequisites, corequisites and equivalencies entered against each course number.