Earth Science Outcome Goals

Earth Science Department
Departments of Physical Sciences
Emporia State University

Statement of goals

1. Earth science baccalaureate (B.S. or B.A.) degree, including preparation for a variety of post-baccalaureate options.
   
2. B.S.E. degree with earth/space science teaching certification.
   
3. Earth science emphasis within the M.S. degree in physical sciences, including distance-learning option.
   
4. Undergraduate minors in earth science, paleontology and geospatial analysis.
   
5. Undergraduate and graduate certificates in geospatial analysis.
   
6. Pre-professional programs (e.g. civil engineering).
   
7. Allied biological, physical and social science programs.
   
8. University-wide general education program.

1. Up-to-date lecture, laboratory, and field-based courses which are intellectually challenging and logically sequenced.
   
2. Laboratory and field study experiences that provide exposure to modern equipment and technologies that will enhance career opportunities of our students.
   
3. State-of-the-art computer technology and software for data acquisition, geospatial analysis, and spatial modeling applications within earth sciences.
   
4. Research opportunities and support for undergraduate students (capstone projects) and graduate students (theses).

Assessment of goals

• Tracking of matriculants on a semester-by-semester basis.
  
• A required capstone undergraduate research experience.
  
• Exit surveys and interviews for graduating students.
  
• Periodic undergraduate and graduate student focus-group discussions.
  
• Placement information for graduates.
  
• Post-graduate information sources, including a formal alumni survey about five years after graduation and informal feedback from alumni.
  
• Other miscellaneous indicators as deemed appropriate.