Graduate Student Learning Outcomes

The following graduate and professional student learning outcomes are intended to present broad categories that define what graduate and professional program students may accomplish in individual programs and degrees. We acknowledge the differences that are inherent among the arts, social sciences, natural sciences, and technical and professional programs at the University of Denver. Thus, each individual program interprets these guidelines through the lens of its own goals to develop learning outcomes and associated rubrics that define and measure program-specific learning outcomes.

These learning outcomes flow from the University of Denver Mission Statement. As a living document, we acknowledge that these outcomes may evolve over time.

We are dedicated to helping students achieve the following learning and developmental outcomes by the time they graduate. These outcomes demonstrate that the University values liberal learning and the breadth of thinking that derive from it, as well as disciplinary and interdisciplinary learning and the depth of thinking derived from those.

• Advanced Theoretical/Disciplinary Knowledge and skills through discovery, application, and expression

  Graduate and professional program students develop, interpret, and express advanced theoretical and/or disciplinary knowledge by applying appropriate modes of inquiry, research, and skills.

  Graduate and professional program students recognize the limitations of existing knowledge, create original works, and develop and apply new knowledge, skills, or creative expressions that synthesize critical, theoretical, historical, and individual ideas.

• Professional/Ethical identity, values, and leadership

  Graduate and professional program students develop professional and ethical identities, apply professional values, and demonstrate appropriate expertise, leadership, and collaborative qualities.

• Intercultural and local/global engagement

  Graduate and professional program students engage collaboratively with others in local and global communities, acknowledging the interdependence of the world's cultures and peoples, practicing inclusive excellence, and contributing to the common good.

• Critical intellectual engagement

  Graduate and professional program students demonstrate abilities needed to sustain learning and its application and expression, including critical intellectual comparisons, synthesis, and self-reflection.