All course syllabi will be made public to promote transparency amid scrutiny
Preview:
University of North Carolina system plans to treat course syllabi at its public campuses as public records, making them searchable and accessible to the public as a way to boost transparency in higher education. System president Peter Hans argues that this step will help restore trust in the university system and give students and taxpayers clearer information about what is taught in classes. Critics, including faculty and academic groups, warn that requiring public posting of syllabi could expose instructors to harassment, pressure them to self-censor content, and threaten academic freedom. The debate highlights differing views on how to balance openness with protecting the intellectual property and safety of faculty while maintaining the quality of university instruction.
Originally published: December 11, 2025
Author: Peter Hans
Position: President
Institution: University of North Carolina System
Published by: The News & Observer