Learning Outcomes
MLO 1: Knowledge Base in Psychology
Students demonstrate fundamental knowledge and comprehension of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, historical trends, and empirical findings to discuss how psychological principles apply to behavioral problems. Students completing foundation courses demonstrate breadth of their knowledge and application of psychological ideas to simple problems; students completing a baccalaureate degree demonstrate depth in their knowledge and application of psychological concepts and frameworks to problems of greater complexity.
MLO 2: Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking
Students demonstrate scientific reasoning and problem solving, including effective research methods. Students completing foundation-level courses demonstrate basic skills and understanding of concepts in interpreting behavior, studying research, and applying research design principles to drawing conclusions about psychological phenomena; students completing a baccalaureate degree demonstrate use of theory as well as the ability to design and execute research plans.
MLO 3: Ethical and Social Responsibility in a Diverse World
Students demonstrate ethically and socially responsible behaviors for professional and personal settings in a landscape that involves increasing diversity. Students completing foundation-level courses demonstrate familiarity with the formal regulations that govern professional ethics in psychology and begin to embrace the values that will contribute to positive outcomes in work settings and in building a society responsive to multicultural and global concerns. Students completing a baccalaureate degree demonstrate adherence to professional values that will help them optimize their contributions and work effectively, even with those who do not share their heritage and traditions. Students practice personal and professional values that can strengthen community relationships and contributions.
MLO 4: Communication
Students demonstrate competence in writing and in oral and interpersonal communication skills. Students completing foundation-level courses write a cogent scientific argument, present information using a scientific approach, engage in discussion of psychological concepts, explain the ideas of others, and express their own ideas with clarity. Students completing a baccalaureate degree produce a research study or other psychological project, explain scientific results, and present information to a professional audience. Students develop flexible interpersonal approaches that optimize information exchange and relationship development.
MLO 5: Professional Development
Students demonstrate the ability to apply psychology-specific content and skills, engage in effective self-reflection, use project-management skills, use teamwork skills, and prepare for a career. Students taking foundation-level courses demonstrate an ability to concentrate on the development of work habits and ethics to succeed in academic settings. Students completing a baccalaureate degree demonstrate their readiness for postbaccalaureate employment, graduate school, or professional school. These skills can be developed and refined both in traditional academic settings and in extracurricular involvement.
