The Composite science program is a collaborative program offered by four departments in the COAS. Most majors pursue the degree in conjunction with the Teacher Certification program.
Objective
Program Review By Science Departments
The four science departments that jointly offer the degree are concerned about the lack of depth in the curriculum due to the wide breadth of topics that are covered.
Indicator
Composite Science Curriculum
The degree program inventory of science courses will be reviewed by a committee of faculty members to determine if students completing the degree will obtain the necessary skills and knowledge to represent themselves as a multiple-discipline trained scientist.
Criterion
Composite Science Curriculum
The unanimous concensus of the faculty panel should be that students completing the degree program have sufficient depth of understanding in all areas. The curriculum should be capable of providing this understanding without additional coursework.
Finding
Composite Science Review
It was determined by a panel of science faculty that the degree program does not provide sufficient depth for our students.
Action
Discontinue Composite Science Program
Neither the science departments nor the COE feel that we should offer this program. A panel consisting of science faculty and a representative of the COE will be convened to discuss phasing out the program.
Objective
Program Review By Curriculum And Instruction
There is concern by the COE that we are no longer in a position to adequately support certification in composite science
Indicator
Composite Science Certification
The College of Education will review the new requirements for certification in composite science to determine if the university should or can continue to offer this option.
Criterion
Composite Science Certification
Students completing the composite science program should have the discipline specific and professional skills to pass certification exams.
Finding
Composite Science Certification Review
It was determined that the skills necessary for passing certification exams were not addressed sufficiently by the current curriculum. It was determined that the university should not offer certification in composite science.
Action
Discontinue Composite Science Certification
Neither the science departments nor the COE feel that we should offer this program. A panel consisting of science faculty and a representative of the COE will be convened to discuss phasing out the program.