Physics and Engineering Learning Outcomes

As a result of completing the Engineering and Physics programs at Wheaton College, students will achieve the following learning outcomes:

  1. Engineering- and Physics-specific knowledge. Learning goals for engineering- and physics-specific knowledge include the ability to use fundamental concepts such as conservation laws to solve problems, and competency in applying engineering and physics fundamentals in diverse topic areas and applied contexts. They also include the ability to relate engineering principles to contemporary issues and solve multidisciplinary engineering problems.
  2. Scientific and technical skills. Learning goals for scientific and technical skills include the ability to solve ill-posed problems through experiments, simulations, and analytical models; determine follow-on investigations; identify resource needs; and design engineering solutions to real problems with defined requirements. They also include competencies in instrumentation, software, coding, and data analytics.
  3. Communication skills. Learning goals for communication skills include the ability to communicate orally and in writing with audiences that have a wide range of backgrounds and needs.
  4. Professional and collaborative skills. Learning goals for professional and workplace skills include the abilities to work independently and in diverse teams; and demonstrate awareness of career opportunities for engineering degree holders and effective practices for job seeking.
  5. Spiritual and personal development. Learning goals for spiritual and personal development include appreciation for God as revealed in creation and the ability to discuss connections between science and Christian thought; personal actions based in ethics and integrity; and critical and professional life skills such as responsibility, perseverance, cultural and social competence, and a commitment to lifelong learning.