Deactivating an Existing Course

Overview

"Deactivation" of a course means that it will no longer appear in the College catalog.  This procedure is used in a variety of circumstances, but the Committee particularly encourages departments to deactivate courses in the catalog that have not been taught for several years. Note that you should not deactivate a course just because the person who teaches it is going on a sabbatical!  You should only deactivate a course when you have no plans to offer it in the foreseeable future.  Deactivation of a course is not the same as deleting a course from degree requirements.  A course that has been deleted from degree requirements can still be offered, while a deactivated course can't.

Deactivated courses can generally be reactivated without having to propose a new course, though reactivations do not take effect until the following academic year. 

Questions to Consider

  • Why is this course being deactivated? Is it likely there will be student demand for the course in the future?
  • How does the deactivation of this course affect your program, major, or minor?  Do these need to be revised in any way?
  • Does any other program use this course in any way?  For instance, does another program require it, recommend it, use it as a prerequisite, or accept it as an elective?  If so, how will they adjust for the deactivation of this course?

Procedure to Follow

  • In Curriculog, fill out the Deactivate Course form.
  • Attach a cover letter that includes a list of all the documents you are submitting.
  • If the course is cross-listed, attach an acknowledgement from the cross-listing department.
  • If the course is used by another major, minor, program, etc., attach acknowledgement from that program.
  • The proposal must be submitted through Curriculog to the Provost's Office by the deadline.
  • Attend the relevant Curriculum Committee meeting to present the proposal.
  • Attend the relevant Senate meeting to answer any questions.