MATS Student Learning Outcomes

(v. 2019)

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) express the intended aim and progress for a student’s learning adventure. Some SLOs are connected to a degree and five are shared program outcomes for all degrees. These objectives appear variously in course syllabi as specific goals appropriate to the course.

When you compose your Capstone paper, make sure to reflect on how these objectives have influenced your thought and practice in ministry. More information about the overarching practices (S, W, C, M) that inform these outcomes can be found here.

Program Outcome 1: Christian Scriptures

Graduate will have knowledge of the content and theological shape of the Christian Scriptures (W)

a) Comprehends the full range of biblical materials
b) Exercises sound critical exegetical practices
c) Critically evaluates scholarly views and traditional readings and applies them constructively in the interpretation of biblical texts
d) Exhibits theological discernment in the identification, evaluation, and synthesis of fundamental biblical themes

Program Outcome 2: Christian Tradition

Graduate will have knowledge of the major theological content, structures, and procedures of the Christian tradition (W, C)

a) Analyzes and evaluates the key facts of the Christian tradition
b) Synthesizes a coherent understanding of the Gospel and the church’s mission
c) Comprehends the major theological loci of the Christian tradition and their interconnectedness with Christian faith and practice
d) Critically evaluates the fundamental theological differences among major Christian traditions
e) Analyzes and evaluates theological claims, formulations, and expressions in terms of their biblical, historical, philosophical, scientific, moral, and experiential dimensions

Program Outcome 3: Languages

Graduate will demonstrate competency in languages appropriate for their degree

Program Outcome 4: Identity

Graduate will have clarity in professional identity (S, W, C, M)

a) Provides a discerning, coherent accounting of one’s internal and external vocations and motivations to pursue ministry or other related fields
b) Focuses one’s attitudes, behaviors, and disciplines to live in accordance with one’s professional identity
c) Expresses a clear understanding of the relationship between one’s professional identity and the life and mission of the church in the world
d) Honestly and critically evaluates one’s own functioning in a professional role

Program Outcome 5: Communication

Graduate will have facility in critical thinking, analysis, and in oral and written communication (W)

a) Skillfully gathers information, critically analyzing, synthesizing, and applying it
b) Critically analyzes arguments and evaluates claims
c) Applies appropriate methodology in formulating coherent theological proposals
d) In written and oral communication makes clear, concise proposals and constructs coherent arguments
e) In oral and written communication conveys ideas accurately and is consistently understandable in diverse settings and for various audiences

MATS Outcome 1: Foundations

Graduates will demonstrate competence in fundamental theological studies.

MATS Outcome 2: Focus

Graduates will demonstrate competence in a particular concentrated area of study.

MATS Outcome 3: Application

Graduates will represent how their coursework has enriched their application of theological disciplines.