College of Science and Technology

Student Learning Outcomes by Program

Interdisciplinary Programs

Actuarial Science - BA, BS

Cognitive Science Major - BA, BS

Earth Science Major - BA, BS

Earth Science - BS in Ed

Environmental Studies Major - BA, BS

Integrated Science Major - BS in Ed, Elementary

Integrated Science Major - BS in Ed, Secondary

Natural Resources Minor - BA, BAA, BS, BS in BA

Biology

Chemistry

Computer Science

Geography

Geology

Industrial and Engineering Technology

Mathematics

Physics

Actuarial Science - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should be able to:

Knowledge

1. demonstrate their knowledge of the fundamental mathematical tools for quantitatively assessing risk, to apply these tools to problems encountered in actuarial science, and to demonstrate a very basic knowledge of insurance and risk management at a level of at least a score of 3 (out of 10) on the examination for Course 1 jointly administered by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS);

2. demonstrate their knowledge of intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics and the fundamentals of finance by meeting the learning objectives for these areas as stated by the SOA and CAS; and

3. demonstrate their knowledge of the business world in which the insurance industry resides.

Skills

1. apply their knowledge of single and multivariable calculus;

2. apply their knowledge of general probability concepts, including univariate and multivariate probability distributions;

3. build economic models to increase their understanding of the framework of contingent events and to use as a frame for pricing;

4. apply their knowledge of microeconomic principles to increase their understanding of the markets in which they operate and of the regulatory issues and to increase their knowledge of the ramification of strategic decisions;

5. apply their knowledge of macroeconomic principles in the developing of economic models and/or economic assumptions;

6. apply their knowledge of finance to the analysis of financial statements, financial performance, the valuation of securities, financial structures, and option pricing;

7. communicate effectively; and

8. use computer packages/write computer programs.

Perceptions or Values

1. describe the value of the problem solving abilities that they have acquired and sharpened in their actuarial science program.

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Earth Science - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should:

1. understand micro- and macro-scale spatial relationships within and between the systems of the physical environment;

2. be able to engage in basic analysis and research procedures involving the use of spatial and temporal data;

3. be able to demonstrate the ability to acquire and use data within the context of field, laboratory, teaching, and/or internship experiences;

4. be able to demonstrate computer, computational, and communication skills at a level at least commensurate with external expectations;

5. be able to demonstrate the ability to work both independently and in a group environment;

6. be able to employ field and laboratory techniques common to earth science;

7. understand the physical processes that shape the surface of the earth through field and laboratory expertise relating to such areas as soils, meteorology, surface hydrology, geomorphology, oceanography, and climatology;

8. be able to demonstrate an ability to property use research tools such as imagery, maps, and computerized data bases;

9. recognize the interrelated nature of the physical and cultural environment;

10. understand physical processes as they relate to economic, political, and environmental considerations.

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Earth Science - BS in Ed

Upon graduation, students earning this degree should be able to:

1. use the state and national content standards and benchmarks to guider their development of lesson plans (MDE Standard/Guideline A) (C,LEA,R);

2. demonstrate basic content knowledge in the earth and space sciences as required by the state subject matter exam including the interconnectedness of all sciences (MDE Standard Guideline B, 1.0 through 1.5.7) (C);

3. effectively teach from lesson plans they have prepared (MDE Standard/Guideline A, B, 7.0-10.0) (LEA,R);

4. maintain a safe laboratory environment in the classroom including the ethical and appropriate use of scientific equipment, and the safe storage, use, and disposal of materials (MDE Standard/Guideline 6.0) (C);

5. develop and teach a hands-on, inquiry-based science program that stresses the scientific method of discovery (MDE Standard/Guideline C and 7.0-10.0) (C, LEA);

6. effectively use technology in the classroom (MDE Standard/Guideline 8.0) (C, LEA); and

7. evaluate student learning using a variety of appropriate assessment methods (MDE Standard/Guideline 9.0) (C, LEA, R).

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Environmental Studies - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should:

1. be suitably prepared for careers in environmental science or environmental policy;

2. be suitably prepared for further education in environmental studies;

3. recognize the interrelationships among scientific, social, economic, and political aspects of environmental issues. Specifically, students will understand environmentalism basic ecology, population dynamics, natural resource issues, and the social, economic, and political issues involved in development of environmental policies;

4. be able to participate effectively in interdisciplinary environmental problem-solving; and

5. be able to communicate effectively their positions regarding environmental issues.

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Integrated Science, BS in Ed, Elementary

Upon graduation, students earning this degree should be to:

1. use the state and national content standards and benchmarks to guide their development of lesson plans (MDE Standard/Guideline A) (C, LEA);

2. demonstrate basic content knowledge in the life, physical, and earth and space sciences as required by the state subject matter exam (MDE Standard/Guideline 1.0 through 1.8.2.4) (C);

3. effectively teach from lesson plans they have prepared MDE Standard/Guideline C and 10.0) (LEA, R);

4. maintain a safe laboratory environment in the classroom including care and use of animals and plants and appropriate use and storage of chemicals (MDE Standard/Guideline 6.0) (C);

5. develop and teach a hands-on, inquiry-based science program that stresses the scientific method of discovery (MDE Standard/Guideline C and 7.0-10.0) (LEA);

6. effectively use technology in the classroom methods (MDE Standard/Guideline 8) (LEA); and

7. evaluate student learning using a variety of appropriate assessment methods (MDE Standard/Guideline 10.0) (LEA, R).

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Integrated Science, BS in Ed, Secondary

Upon graduation, students earning this degree should be to:

1. use the state and national content standards and benchmarks to guide their development of lesson plans (MDE Standard/Guideline A) (C, LEA, R);

2. demonstrate basic content knowledge in the life, physical, and earth and space sciences as required by the state subject matter exam (MDE Standard/Guideline 1.0 through 1.8.3.5) (C);

3. effectively teach from lesson plans they have prepared MDE Standard/Guideline C and 10.0) (LEA, R);

4. maintain a safe laboratory environment in the classroom including care and use of animals and plants and appropriate use and storage of chemicals (MDE Standard/Guideline 6.0) (C);

5. develop and teach a hands-on, inquiry-based science program that stresses the scientific method of discovery (MDE Standard/Guideline C and 7.0-10.0) (C, LEA);

6. effectively use technology in the classroom methods (MDE Standard/Guideline 8) (LEA); and

7. evaluate student learning using a variety of appropriate assessment methods (MDE Standard/Guideline 10.0) (C, LEA, R).

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Biology Major - BS in Ed, Secondary

Upon graduation, students earning this degree should be able to:

1. use the state and national content standards and benchmarks to guide their development of lesson plans (MDE Standard/Guideline A) (C, LEA, R);

2. demonstrate basic content knowledge in the life, physical, and earth and space sciences as required by the state subject matter exam (MDE Standard/Guideline 1.0 through 3.6.5) (C);

3. effectively teach from lesson plans they have prepared MDE Standard/Guideline C and 9.0 and 11.0) (LEA, R);

4. maintain a safe laboratory environment in the classroom including care and use of animals and plants and appropriate use and storage of chemicals (MDE Standard/Guideline 7.0) (C);

5. develop and teach a hands-on, inquiry-based science program that stresses the scientific method of discovery (MDE Standard/Guideline 2.0, 4.0, 8.0 and 9.0) (C, LEA);

6. effectively use technology in the classroom methods (MDE Standard/Guideline 11.0) (C, LEA); and

7. evaluate student learning using a variety of appropriate assessment methods (MDE Standard/Guideline 9.0) (C, LEA, R).

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Biology Major: General Option - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should:

1. have experienced flexibility with electives in structuring a program of study toward the individual's specific interest, career, and/or occupational goals requiring less than a graduate degree;

2. have a solid foundation of the introductory concepts, ideas, and current issues associated with the required core courses that will enhance their understanding of the relevance of biology in their daily lives;

3. have knowledge of and appreciation for the basic methodology of the scientific method including an understanding of inquiry science, critical thinking, and life-long problem-solving skills important to everyday life;

4. have effectively participated in practical and "hands-on" experiences in both laboratory and field techniques that will provide exposure to specific professional (career) tasks;

5. be able to effectively use and apply the technology, equipment, and procedures of biology as these may relate to specific career and occupational goals;

6. have participated in diverse activities that foster cooperative learning where students can make informal judgments about the technical aspects of biology and can formulate solutions to problems through communication and teamwork;

7. have maintained a course plan for graduation and demonstrated an active communication process between themselves and the department (departmental advisor).

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Biology Major: Microscopy Option - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should be able to:

Goal 1: Fundamental background knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics and math.

1.1 describe and integrate concepts at different levels of biological organization:  molecules, genes, cells, organisms, and evolution;

1.2 describe structure-function relationships at each level of organization; and

1.3 describe quantitative biological concepts.

Goal 2: Opportunities to develop critical thinking skills in the biological sciences.

2.1 demonstrate scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills; and

2.2 design experiments and evaluate experimental microscopic evidence.

Goal 3: Opportunities to develop communication skills necessary for microscopy professionals.

3.1 demonstrate effective written communication skills; and

3.2 demonstrate effective oral communication skills, including clearly explaining biological microscopic information and application of specific microscopes.

Goal 4: Opportunities to develop practical skills for the use and application of microscopy in the biological sciences.

4.1 demonstrate proficiency in sample preparation and the use of light and electron microscopes;

4.2 demonstrate ability to design and implement experiments for the use of microscopes to solve biological problems; and

4.3 describe theoretical fundamentals of how microscopes work.

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Biology Major: Natural Resources Option - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should:

1. have a broad background in natural resources and a solid foundation in biological diversity and ecosystem processes;

2. have an awareness of the relevant interdisciplinary topics and issues associated with the conservation and management of natural resources and the environment;

3. be able to identify and explore solutions to current environmental problems through critical thinking and communication;

4. have gained practical experience through field-oriented research and/or internships;

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Biology Major: Pregraduate/Preprofessional Option - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should:

1. have an understanding of the basic biological concepts and principles in core courses and in the content area specific to their studies;

2. have conducted or assisted in biological research in the laboratory and/or in the field;

3. be equipped with the skills necessary to research the primary literature in biology;

4. be capable of integrating biological data and biological concepts into written work and/or an oral presentation;

5. have the skills necessary to apply and be admitted to a pre-professional school. Pre-professional schools include those admitting students for graduate study in Medical Sciences, Dentistry Sciences, Veterinary Sciences, Physical Therapy,

6. have the necessary background for successful completion of the professional school enrollment.

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Biology/Biomedical Sciences Major - BA, BS

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should be able to:

 1.1  describe and integrate conceptual levels of biological organization: molecules, genes, cells, organisms, and evolution.

 1.2  describe structure-function relationships at each level of organization.

 1.3  describe quantitative biological concepts, including statistical tests.

 2.1  demonstrate scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills.

 2.2  design experiments and evaluate experimental/clinical evidence.

 2.3  solve problems requiring the integration of biological, chemical, physical and mathematical concepts.

 3.1  demonstrate effective written communication skills.

 3.2  demonstrate effective oral communication skills, including clearly explaining biomedical information to a lay person and speaking to an audience.

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MS in Biology

Upon graduation, students earning any of these degrees should:

1. be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge of all areas of biology;

2. be able to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge in one area of specialization;

3. be able to demonstrate skill in the use of fundamental laboratory or field equipment;

4. be able to demonstrate skill in the use of specialized laboratory or field equipment;

5. be able to demonstrate the ability to develop problem solving and data analysis skills;

6. be able to demonstrate familiarity with literature and how to access it electronically;

7. be able to develop computer skills in the areas of word processing, spreadsheets, statistics, and telecommunications;

8. be able to demonstrate writing skills including journal articles, grant proposals, and professional correspondence;

9. be able to demonstrate the ability to present information orally including a research presentation;

10. be able to develop a professional identity;

11. be able to demonstrate skill in identifying goals and seeking employment or doctoral programs.

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Chemistry Major - BA, BS

Upon graduation, student earning any of these degrees will be:

Goal/Objective #1

knowledgeable about the factual and theoretical basis of chemistry.  Specifically the students should be able to describe the structure and composition of matter, plan the synthesis and characteristics of inorganic and organic compounds, apply theoretical and mechanistic principles to the study of chemical systems employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches, use theories of microscopic properties to explain macroscopic behavior, and explain the role of energy in determining the structure and reactivity of molecules.

Goal/Objective #2

competent to work in a laboratory situation.  Specifically the student will be able to read and follow written experimental protocols, properly set up and safely manipulate laboratory equipment, plan and execute experiments (including the use of the chemical literature), perform accurate quantitative measurements, maintain accurate records of experimental work, and analyze data statistically and assess reliability of results.

Goal/Objective #3

familiar with the use and application of modern instrumentation and computers.  Specifically, students will be able to calibrate instruments, use them for the proper applications, verify results by independent techniques, and demonstrate the use of instruments to novices.

Goal/Objective #4

able to communicate effectively both orally and in written form, using correct chemical nomenclature and mathematical representations of physical phenomena.

Goal/Objective #5

able to access and retrieve specific chemical information from the chemical literature, including research articles, books, and databases; read and understand technical material; and comprehend and assimilate orally presented information.

Goal/Objective #6

able to anticipate, recognize, and respond properly to hazards of chemical manipulations, know where to find information on chemical hazards, and how to dispose of chemical wastes safely.

Goal/Objective #7

able to work cooperatively in problem solving situations.

Goal/Objective #8

able to identify benefits and problems of modern chemistry for society and be aware of career opportunities for persons with chemical training.

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Chemistry Major - BS in Ed, Secondary

Upon graduation, students earning this degree should:

MDE Standards - Chemistry

	Standard/Guideline
	Submit a narrative that explains how this program:
A.	uses the Michigan Curriculum Framework K-12 Science Content Standards and Benchmarks as the critical foundation for teacher preparation, ensuring that chemistry teachers have the content knowledge and the ability to teach this curriculum; and
B.	develops an understanding of the interconnectedness of all science, including biology, the earth/space sciences, and physics, and relates this understanding to the teaching of chemistry.
	The preparation of chemistry teachers will enable them to:
1.0	understand and develop the major concepts and principles of chemistry, including concepts in inorganic, organic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry, which shall include such topics as the following:
1.1	Inorganic Chemistry, including
1.1.1	atomic and molecular structure and bonding
1.1.2	stoichiometry
1.1.3	thermodynamics and thermochemistry
1.1.4	gas laws
1.1.5	states of matter
1.1.6	equilibria
1.1.7	acid-base
1.1.8	electrochemistry
1.1.9	nomenclature
1.1.10	qualitative analysis
1.2	Organic Chemistry, including
1.2.1	functional groups
1.2.2	nomenclature
1.2.3	aliphatic and alicyclic reactions
1.2.4	stereochemistry
1.2.5	structure and reactivity of major functional groups
1.2.6	aromatic compounds
1.2.7	spectroscopy
1.2.8	heterocyclic compounds
1.2.9	polymers
1.2.10	bromolecules
1.3	Physical Chemistry, including
1.3.1	chemical thermodynamics
1.3.2	thermochemistry
1.3.3	electrolyte solutions
1.3.4	measurements of physical properties of solids, liquids, and gases
1.3.5	phase equilibria
1.3.6	molecular spectra
1.3.7	spectroscopy
1.3.8	calorimetry
1.3.9	quantum mechanics
1.4	Biochemistry, including
1.4.1	biomolecules – proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids – their structure and function
1.4.2	aqueous pollutions
1.4.3	buffers
1.4.4	enzyme kinetics
1.4.5	thermodynamics
1.4.6	electron transport
1.4.7	oxidative phosphorylation
1.4.8	metabolism
1.4.9	biosynthesis/biodegradation pathway
1.5	Analytical Chemistry, including
1.5.1	ionic equilibria
1.5.2	electrochemistry
1.5.3	advanced separation technique – GLC and HPLC
1.5.4	electrochemical analysis
1.5.5	spectroscopic analysis
	The preparation of high school chemistry teachers will enable teachers to:
2.0	apply mathematics, including calculus and statistics, to investigations in chemistry and the analysis of data;
3.0	relate the concepts of chemistry to contemporary, historical, technological, and societal issues; in particular, relate concepts of chemistry to current controversies, such as those around energy uses and medical research, as well as other issues;
4.0	locate resources, design and conduct inquiry-based open-ended investigations in chemistry, interpret findings, communicate results, and make judgments based on evidence;
5.0	construct new knowledge for themselves through research, reading and discussion, and reflect in an informed way on the role of science in human affairs;
6.0	understand and promote the maintenance of a safe science classroom as identified by the Council of State Science Supervisors, including the appropriate use and storage of scientific equipment, and the safe storage, use, and disposal of chemicals;
7.0	demonstrate competence in the practice of teaching as defined within the Entry-Level Standards for Michigan Teachers;
8.0	create and maintain an educational environment in which conceptual understanding will occur for all science students;
9.0	demonstrate competence in the practice of teaching through investigative experiences and by demonstrating the application of the scientific process and assessing student learning through multiple processes;
10.0	develop an understanding and appreciation for the nature of scientific inquiry; and
11.0	understand chemistry as the study of the composition, structure, properties, reactions of matter, and the dynamic interrelations of matter.

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Chemistry Minor for Biology/Medical Technology

Upon graduation, students earning this degree should be able to:

1. demonstrate competency in chemistry concepts by achieving appropriate scores on standardized examinations;

2. demonstrate competency in laboratory work by passing selected laboratory courses with at least a grade of C, using standardized internal examinations based on American Chemical Society guidelines, and complete a laboratory-based research course.  Two major components of the laboratory experiences will be literature searching and record keeping;

3. demonstrate competency in computer applications by using word processing for written reports, using spreadsheets for data collection, and using data treatment software in problem-solving applications; and

4. demonstrate competency in written and oral skills be presenting results of independent work in both formats.

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Chemistry - Physics Major, BS in Ed, Secondary

Upon graduation, students earning this degree should:

MDE Standards Chemistry

	Standard/Guideline
	Submit a narrative that explains how this program:
A.	uses the Michigan Curriculum Framework K-12 Science Content Standards and Benchmarks as the critical foundation for teacher preparation, ensuring that chemistry teachers have the content knowledge and the ability to teach this curriculum; and
B.	develops an understanding of the interconnectedness of all science, including biology, the earth/space sciences, and physics, and relates this understanding to the teaching of chemistry.
	The preparation of chemistry teachers will enable them to:
1.0	understand and develop the major concepts and principles of chemistry, including concepts in inorganic, organic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry, which shall include such topics as the following:
1.1	Inorganic Chemistry, including
1.1.1	atomic and molecular structure and bonding
1.1.2	stoichiometry
1.1.3	thermodynamics and thermochemistry
1.1.4