For Instructors

Duo Security helps keep student data—like grades, assignments, and contact information—more secure. It also helps students protect their financial aid from theft.

If your students use applications in class such as Canvas, GSuite (Docs, Slides, Sheets, etc.), Qualtrics, or others that are protected by the UMN Sign-In page, they may need to use a device or bypass codes to access those systems.

To help set expectations for your students and to avoid potential misunderstandings, please consider including the following text, or a customized version of it, in your syllabi.

laptop displaying a Canvas course site syllabus page

Sample Syllabus Language

You may wish to include the following advisory in your syllabi.

If you use Duo Security to sign in to University applications, YOU ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to set up back-up devices in Duo Security so that you are prepared in the event that your primary Duo device is unavailable (you forgot it, it was stolen, it’s broken, the battery is dead, etc.). Learn about back up devices at it.umn.edu/services-technologies/how-tos/duo-use-backup-device. 

As a Duo user, it is your responsibility to come prepared to sign in to applications necessary for class activities, including exams and quizzes. If you are unable to sign in, you may lose points for the class activity. Failure to bring your Duo device or a back-up is not an excused absence or a valid reason for make up work.

Learn more about Duo Security at z.umn.edu/duosecurity.

Optional Syllabus Language

If you are concerned about improper use of devices in the classroom, consider including the following in your syllabi:

Please only use your mobile phone to verify your identity with Duo Security at the University of Minnesota Sign-In page. Verification takes less than a minute. After you have successfully signed in, put your phone away for the duration of the class period.

distracted students with cell phones

Additional Resources

Duo Security at Sign In
Duo Two-Factor Authentication