Graduate Program Learning Objectives

The Department of Geosciences has established the following four categories of learning objectives for the MS and PhD graduate programs. Each objective is assessed annually.

Foundational Skills

These objectives are aimed at students achieving knowledge of geoscience theory at the level required for their prospective degree.
  1. Coursework: the student makes progress in advanced coursework as identified on the student’s Program of Study
  2. Comprehensive exams/thesis proposal: the student progresses towards timely completion of exams and/or research proposals as required by degree program and outlined in the Graduate Student Handbook

Research Skills

These objectives are aimed at acquiring professional-level knowledge and expertise in their chosen specialization.
  1. Independent research/learning skills: the student develops ability to conduct independent thesis/dissertation research, data collection and analysis techniques, including staying up to date on literature
  2. Research products: the student generates high-quality and rigorous results based on their research (e.g., analytical data, mapping, computational)
  3. Interpret and synthesize results: the student progresses towards developing sound interpretations of their research products, including synthesizing multiple data sets
  4. Writing skills: the student progresses towards completing high-quality written products of their research, such as a thesis, dissertation, and/or publication; this includes developing science writing skills

Communication Skills

These objectives are aimed at the development of critical interpersonal, leadership, and science communication skills.
  1. Teamwork and leadership: the student effectively collaborates in regular meetings with their major professor and research group, while also demonstrating leadership potential
  2. Presentations/Conferences: the student orally presents their research and attends professional meetings/conferences
  3. Teaching/Mentoring: the student demonstrates effective teaching and or peer mentoring, as applicable for their role (e.g., teaching assistant, undergraduate research mentor)

Professional Development

These objectives are aimed at building the "soft skills" and professional profile needed to effectively pursue career goals.
  1. Service: the student demonstrates service to the department, university, and broader community
  2. Career development: the student builds the materials (CV/resume, cover letters) and skills necessary (interviewing) for their career goals. The student participates in networking and pursues professional connections appropriate for their career goals.
  3. Ethical conduct: the student demonstrates ethical and professional conduct, including respect for intellectual property, citation of credit and financial support, and the Geosciences Department Code of Conduct