A course prerequisite is any requirement an academic program identifies as necessary for a student to complete successfully before taking the course. A course co-requisite is any requirement an academic program identifies as necessary for a student to satisfy concurrently with the course (a co-requisite may be satisfied prior to the course as well as concurrently). Prerequisites and co-requisites typically are other courses, but may also be some other requirement (e.g., senior standing).
Academic programs are designed carefully so students can achieve identified learning outcomes. Prerequisites and co-requisites are important parts of the curriculum design. These requirements are not arbitrary, but provide a rational path through the curriculum, allowing students to master material that is needed in subsequent courses.
It is the responsibility of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the academic programs, and the faculty to advise students of course prerequisites and co-requisites. Course prerequisites and co-requisites are published in the university catalog. Additional information about prerequisites and co-requisites is published on web sites, course syllabi, or in program documents.
It is the right of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the academic programs, and the faculty instructor to cancel a student's registration in a course if the student has not satisfied the published prerequisites for the course.
Students are ultimately responsible for knowing and adhering to course prerequisites and co-requisites. Failure to follow such requirements may place a student at academic risk.
Last updated: January, 2020