Student Learning Outcomes
We expect each undergraduate student who has a major in Biology or Zoology to have
achieved the following outcomes at the time they graduate with a B.S. from our program:
1.
Understand and explain major biological concepts.
2.
Use critical thinking and scientific skills to analyze and solve problems.
3.
Effectively communicate biological problems and solutions to both the scientific
community and the public at large in writing and in discussion.
4.
Formulate logical hypotheses and test them by designing and running appropriate
experiments or observational studies and analyses.
5.
Identify the central body of knowledge in biology or zoology (including knowledge
from molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology and organismal biology,).
6.
Use scientific literacy and knowledge of biology or zoology to analyze contemporary
social, cultural, and environmental issues and contribute to informed opinion.
We expect each graduate student, whether in an MS or PhD program in Botany or Zoology,
to have achieved the following outcomes by the time his/her program is completed:
1. Prepared for a successful and productive career in biological sciences, including:
a.
b.
c.
d.
achieved a high level of expertise in biological sciences, mastering knowledge in
a field of expertise and prepared to apply that knowledge to address novel and
emerging problems;
presented his/her research to national and international audiences through
both peer-reviewed and popular publications, professional meetings and
conference proceedings;
participated in professional organizations; and,
developed a professional foundation through activities such as teaching,
internships, fellowships, and preparation of grant applications.
2. Trained to be a leading researcher in a field of the biological sciences, including:
a.
achieved research independence by developing expertise in his/her chosen area,
thereby enabling original contributions that extend beyond their degree
program;
b.
c.
d.
applied sound research methods and tools to problems in his/her area of study;
communicated his/her research clearly and professionally in both written and
oral forms; and
developed comprehensive knowledge of previous and current research in
his/her field of expertise and capable of demonstrating clearly such knowledge.
3. Trained to be a highly effective teacher in the biological sciences, including:
a.
b.
c.
d.
obtained teaching training in coursework;
encouraged to become engaging instructors in his/her chosen fields using
modern pedagogical techniques;
capable of incorporating emerging scientific discoveries in teaching, thereby
keeping the classroom experience at the cutting-edge for students; and,
trained to review and revise classroom materials to enhance the learning
experience for students.