Undergraduate student learning outcomes

B.S./B.A. graduates from the Biochemistry program will have demonstrated:

• Understanding of the structures and functions of biological molecules.
• Understanding of intermediary metabolism and its control.
• Understanding of molecular genetics.
• Understanding of physical concepts and techniques of the discipline.
• Ability to design and conduct experiments (safely) and interpret experimental data.
• Ability to use computers as information and research tools.
• Ability to collaborate with other scientists, including people of diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to present concepts in oral, written and visual forms.

K-State undergraduate student learning outcomes

Knowledge

Students will demonstrate a depth of knowledge and apply the methods of inquiry in a discipline of their choosing, and they will demonstrate a breadth of knowledge across their choice of varied disciplines.

Critical thinking

Students will demonstrate the ability to access and interpret information, respond and adapt to changing situations, make complex decisions, solve problems, and evaluate actions.

Communication

Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly and effectively.

Diversity

Students will demonstrate awareness and understanding of the skills necessary to live and work in a diverse world.

Academic and professional integrity

Students will demonstrate awareness and understanding of the ethical standards of their academic discipline and/or profession.

Alignment matrix for required courses

B.S./B.A. program student learning outcomes	BIOCH 100	BIOCH 522	BIOCH 775	BIOCH 755	BIOCH 756	BIOCH 765	BIOCH 799
1. Understanding of the structures and fundamentals of biological molecules	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
2. Understanding of intermediary metabolism and its control	X	X		X		X	X
3. Understanding of molecular genetics	X					X	X
4. Understanding of physical concepts and techniques in biochemistry		X	X	X	X	X	X
5. Ability to design and conduct experiments and interpret experimental data					X		X
6. Ability to use computers as information and research tools	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
7. Ability to collaborate with other scientists, including people of diverse backgrounds							X
8. Ability to present concepts in oral, written, and visual forms	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
University-wide student learning outcomes
Knowledge	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Critical thinking		X	X	X	X	X	X
Communication	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Diversity					X		X
Integrity	X				X		X

Summary of the 2013-2014 Annual Progress Report on Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes

The following two student learning outcomes were assessed by the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics for the 2013-14 academic year:

1. Understanding of the structures and functions of biological molecules
2. Understanding of intermediary metabolism and its control.

Student performance data in the six sections of the capstone courses demonstrate the effectiveness of teaching methods employed. Overall, 61 to 83% of the 2013-14 biochemistry graduates either met or exceeded the expected level of proficiency in the different sections of biochemistry courses, as indicated by their test scores in the top or middle one-third group of the entire classes.