Taken together, the student learning outcomes and the student development outcomes underscore the important partnership of students, faculty, and staff in supporting student learning in the broadest sense.
The outcomes provide comprehensive goals that ensure University of Minnesota graduates are responsible and engaged citizens prepared to participate in and meet the challenges of a complex, diverse, and global society.
Two Intersecting Pathways
An exceptional undergraduate experience is not achieved by academics or extracurriculars alone. Instead, it is the deliberate intersection and integration of both classroom learning (Academic) and real-world application (Experiential) that defines a truly complete education.
The Academic Pillar
This pathway represents formal, classroom-based learning and curriculum requirements. The specific components extending upward from this side include:
- Major and Minor: The primary and secondary areas of specialized study.
- Undergraduate Writing: Infused writing requirements across disciplines.
- Undergraduate Research: Opportunities to engage in scholarly discovery and inquiry.
- Freshman Seminars: Small, interactive classes designed to transition new students into university-level thinking.
- Liberal Education: The foundational core curriculum providing a broad base of knowledge across multiple disciplines.
The Experiential Pillar
This pathway represents hands-on, applied learning opportunities that take place both inside and outside the traditional classroom. The components extending upward from this side include:
- Community Engagement: Public service, volunteering, and community-based learning.
- Internships and Co-ops: Professional work experiences integrated with academic study.
- Student Activities and Leadership: Participation in campus clubs, student government, and leadership roles.
- Student Employment: On-campus or off-campus jobs that build professional skills.
- Learning Abroad: International study, research, or intern programs.
The Undergraduate Experience Framework
Student Learning Outcomes
At the time of receiving a bachelor's degree, students:
- Can Identify, define, and solve problems
- Can locate and critically evaluate information
- Have mastered a body of knowledge and a mode of inquiry
- Understand diverse philosophies and culture within and across societies
- Can communicate effectively
- Understand the role of creativity, innovation, discovery, and expression across disciplines
- Have acquired skills for effective citizenship and lifelong learning
Student Development Outcomes
As they progress toward their degree, students will develop and demonstrate:
- Responsibility and Accountability
- Independence and Interdependence
- Goal Orientation
- Self Awareness
- Resilience
- Appreciation of Differences
- Tolerance of Ambiguity