You can use word to add imagery to a page making it look more like a magazine. And, with a printer and 11 x 17 paper, you can make it into a newsletter.
Using simple design rules, and following accessibility guidelines, you can create a readable and engaging syllabus.
Use meaningful and powerful images
Break pages into columns
Use "pull out quotes" to highlight the most important elements
Charts or graphs that may convey proportion better than text
The examples below are both printed on 11 x 17 paper.