Assessment of the Characteristics of the MSU Graduate

The Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) requires each institution to demonstrate a commitment to program improvement. According to the Principles of Accreditation, “The concept of quality enhancement is at the heart of the Commission’s philosophy of accreditation; this presumes each member institution to be engaged in an ongoing program of improvement and able to demonstrate how well it fulfills its stated mission (p.9).”

Murray State University’s Quality Enhancement Plan (approved by SACS in 2004 places emphasis upon the improvement of teaching and learning through an integrated and intentional curriculum, which focuses upon the student learning outcomes known on campus as the Characteristics of a Murray State University Graduate. While Academic Assessment on the program level assesses the level of attainment of Characteristic #9 (“Demonstrates mastery of a chosen field of study”), the QEP focuses on the remaining 9 Characteristics (#1-8, and 10) and assesses those learning outcomes across the University Studies curriculum, Student Affairs, and the concentrated programs making up the baccalaureate majors .

The QEP provides the institution with a process to gauge the intentionality of the curriculum, to recognize the contributions of the learning community both inside and outside the classroom, and reinforces a culture of evidence. By establishing a comprehensive assessment methodology, the institution’s QEP ensures that assessment data is thoroughly reviewed and that appropriate change is implemented as warranted to guarantee continuous improvement.

Each year, over the next nine years, the institution will select one of the Characteristics of a Murray State University Graduate and focus the attention of the campus community on that outcome. Meanwhile, on the collegiate level, departments will continue to assess Characteristic #9 through program-based assessment to encourage continuous improvement in the major.

Mapping the Characteristics of the Murray State Graduate

• Survey for Academic and Student Affairs
• Assessment Training Materials

QEP Assessment of Characteristic #1

Engage in mature, independent and creative thought and express that thought effectively in oral and written communication. (2007-2008)

QEP Assessment of Characteristic #6

Understand the dynamics of cultural diversity, of competing economic and political systems, and of complex moral and ethical issues. (2006-2007)

QEP Assessment of Characteristic #7

Understand the importance of and engage in ethical behavior and responsible citizenship. (2005-2006)

• Assessment form for Characteristic #7
• Assessing Ethics (from David Ozar Workshop)
• Student Academic Integrity Pledge (Draft for Campus Review, April 2006)

For additional information on the Characteristics of the Murray State University Graduate go to: http://www.murraystate.edu/provost/strategic/