Every program of study at WVC gives students the opportunity to develop abilities that will carry through to future learning or vocational application. The purpose of this general education is for students to master competencies for independent learning and to develop an awareness of the fundamental areas of knowledge. What degree and certificate holders know and can do reflects on our students and on our integrity as an institution. We specifically build these general education outcomes into all of our programs of study that lead to degrees and certificates in both transfer and professional/technical areas.
At a minimum, students who complete a transfer degree should be able to communicate effectively and will be introduced to the content and methodology of the major areas of knowledge – the humanities and fine arts, the natural sciences, mathematics, and the social sciences. Students in professional/technical programs will have completed a body of instruction in communication, computation and human relations in addition to acquiring their technical competencies.
At WVC, however, we intend to go well beyond the minimum. The vision statement of WVC says, in part, that we are engaged in “transforming lives.” Therefore, the faculty has developed curriculum that gives students opportunities to acquire life-changing abilities. Learning that lasts transcends discipline and program specific skills, competencies and knowledge.
WVC structures learning so that students acquire those abilities that produce deep, lasting learning.
Student learning outcomes
Through the course of pursuing degrees and certificates from WVC, successful students should be skilled in:
Problem solving:
- Critical Thinking
- Creative Thinking
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Qualitative Reasoning
Communication:
- Oral Expression
- Written Expression
- Artistic Expression
Social interaction:
- Collaboration
- Ethical Conduct
- Professional Conduct
- Cultural Diversity
Inquiry
- Information Literacy
- Research
- Documentaton
We are committed to continually assessing both what our students know and can do, and how we can improve their college experience.