Learning outcomes
Olin College of Engineering is committed to preparing graduates who recognize the complexity of the world, appreciate the relationship of their work to society and to the environment and are ready to engineer a better future for the world. What follows is a statement of learning outcomes Olin intends to instill in graduates and represents a vision of the key abilities, skills and mindsets necessary for success, both in the engineering field and beyond. The vision has been constructed through careful research and consideration into engineering practice and competencies necessary to approach emerging technical, environmental and societal challenges in a global context. Through intentional educational design, the Olin community supports the development of graduates who:
Acquire Knowledge, Skills and Approaches
Build the appropriate breadth and depth of content, techniques and methodologies from diverse fields.
Apply Analytical Methods
Systematically and appropriately apply qualitative, quantitative and critical methodologies and approaches to gather data, analyze, model and draw conclusions.
Think Critically
Engage in analyzing, evaluating, synthesizing, and applying diverse information and experiences to support decision-making, attitude formation, action and expression.
Develop and Apply Creativity
Generate novel ideas and approaches, taking into account authentic constraints, that lead to innovative outcomes.
Consider Context
Use a holistic approach that integrates across all relevant contexts and perspectives to identify and address needs and opportunities and consider impacts on individuals, society and environments.
Prioritize Sustainability
Consider the social and environmental systems impacted by engineering and design decisions, aiming for the greatest positive transformation while minimizing unintended negative consequences.
Communicate Effectively
Express meaning successfully through oral, written, and visual media and listen actively to comprehend the meaning of others.
Collaborate Successfully
Create and maintain successful working relationships and identify and resolve interpersonal teaming conflicts to achieve a common goal.
Plan and Execute
Scope, plan and implement projects, maintain accountability for contributions, continuously evaluate progress, navigate uncertainty and adversity, and iterate as needed.
Become Self-Directed Learners
Identify and address learning needs through setting goals, selecting resources and maintaining self-accountability to develop and support intellectual curiosity.
Develop Personal and Professional Ethics
Define and apply one’s own beliefs and values to inform one’s approaches while considering and respecting the perspectives of others.
Foster Identity Development
Identify and reflect on key moments in life and connect them to the development of one’s sense of self.
In keeping with Olin's institutional value of continuous improvement, learning outcomes are viewed as fluid. They are reviewed and enhanced yearly.