Special Topics
These courses cover specific topics not covered in existing courses and allow qualified students to explore these areas of special interest. Before new course material is formally proposed as a new course with a permanent number these special topics also allow the department an option to offer the course on a trial basis.
Course numbers designated for a special topics are typically within the ranges of 290-298 or 490-498.
A particular special topic is only permitted to be offered two times. A course action should be submitted to the Office of Courses, Curricula and Academic Standards via CIM prior to the offering of a topic for a third time.
Special Topics must have one association per section. Consider assigning the same association number as your section number to prevent duplication.
Add a Special Topic Section
Step 1: If a new section needs to be added, follow the steps in Adding a Section. Otherwise, proceed straight to step 2 below.
Step 2: To create a title for the special topics offering in an upcoming term you must contact Registration & Records or complete the Special Topics Request form.
Step 3: Once the title has been established in the course catalog, it can be assigned to a specific section.
Under the ‘Basic Data’ tab find the ‘Class Topic’ section.
Step 4: In the ‘Course Topic ID’ text box either enter the topic ID number or search the title offerings by clicking on the magnifying glass icon.
Step 5: Make sure the check box is selected for the ‘Print Topic in Schedule’. This will allow students to see the title in the class search.
Step 6: Click the ‘Save’ button in the bottom left corner.
Notes can be added regarding the content of the special topics section – such as course description, contact information, fees details, etc.
Step 7: Under the ‘Notes’ tab, either select an already existing note or enter text using the ‘Free Format Text’ box.
Step 8: If an additional note needs to be added, click on the ‘+’ box on the right side.
Step 9: Click the ‘Save’ button in the bottom left corner.
Special Topics Change in Grading Method
A special topics course offering may have the grading method changed on a per semester basis. Use the Special Topics Change of Grading Method form and submit directly to the Office of Undergraduate Courses, Curricula, and Academic Standards. Once approved by OUCC they will then send to Registration & Records for processing.