Characteristics of learning outcomes

Degree program student learning outcomes define the scope (breadth and depth) of what students will know, be able to do, etc., upon completion of the degree program. Degree program student learning outcomes:

• Are explicit;
• Are learning-centered (focus on what students learn rather than on what faculty teach);
• Align with the degree program purpose;
• Are appropriate to the level of the degree offered (Master’s degree outcomes would be more rigorous and comprehensive than Bachelor’s degree outcomes, etc.); and
• If a degree program has emphases, the outcomes capture the learning associated with both the common and unique curricular requirements of the degree.