Outcomes Assessment
Intended learning outcomes for B.S. graduates in Biochemistry
or Biophysics
1. Broad and deep understanding of the ways that life functions are
explained in terms of the principles of chemistry and physics.
2. Practical and direct knowledge of the scientific method, including
the ability to develop and describe hypotheses, to design experimental
tests of hypotheses, and to critically analyze experimental results
and the conclusions that are drawn from them.
3. The ability to perform experiments in the laboratory using a wide
variety of methodologies appropriate to the disciplines of biochemistry,
biophysics, and molecular biology.
4. The ability to efficiently and effectively communicate scientific
knowledge, experimental results, and analyses, in both oral and written
formats.
5. The ability to utilize computational tools as appropriate to the
biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology disciplines, including
research, data analysis, and communication.
6. The knowledge necessary for students, according to their career goals,
to attain acceptance into advanced degree programs including graduate
school, medical school, and veterinary school.
7. Familiarity with the complexity of issues facing professionals in
the biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology disciplines, including
scientific and moral ethics, cultural diversity, and environmental concerns.
8. Familiarity with the types of contributions that our disciplines
can provide to society, including improvements in the human condition,
and economic stimulation at the local, national, and international levels.
Assessment measures
- Scores on professional examinations (GRE, MCAT, LSAT, etc.)
- Exit interviews
- Alumni surveys
- Graduating student surveys
- Course grades
- Course evaluations
- Undergraduate research participation rates and performance evaluations
- Placement data
- acceptance into professional schools, e.g., Ph.D. programs,
medical school, pharmacy school, law school
- employment after graduation
- Focus groups
- Evaluation of written laboratory reports in upper level biochemistry
lab courses