Philosophy Department
Department Assessment Plan

DEPARTMENT ASSESSMENT PLAN

Program objectives
The philosophy department has the following six instructional objectives which it aims to accomplish through all of its programs.

1 Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and forcefully in written English, including a college-level mastery of the conventions of formal correctness.
Specifically, a demonstrated ability to write philosophical essays involving
the construction of sound arguments in which technical terms are used in
appropriate ways.

2 Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and forcefully in oral English,
including a college-level mastery of the conventions of formal correctness.
Specifically, a demonstrated ability to present and organize ideas into sound
arguments in which technical terms are used in appropriate ways.

3 Ability to read, comprehend and analyze philosophical texts written in or
translated into English. Specifically, a demonstrated ability to identify,
analyze, and critically assess the soundness of arguments and the appropri-
ate use of technical terms.

4 Acquisition of a body of content knowledge in philosophy, providing a
sufficient foundation for further graduate study in the discipline. Specifically,
a demonstrated knowledge of the major figures from the history of philosophy
and at least two areas of philosophy (e.g. ethics, philosophy of religion, political philosophy, etc.).

5 Ability to synthesize ideas drawn from diverse sources. Specifically, the
ability to relate concepts, ideas, and issues to the broader history of philosophy.

6 Ability to think creatively and develop original ideas.


FULL DEPARTMENT ASSESSMENT PLAN (includes Program Objectives, Student Handbook, and Student Assessment Form)