The University has adopted a comprehensive plan for evaluating the impact of its programs and services on its students. Developed in response to guidelines set forth by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the outcomes assessment program examines the extent to which the University is meeting its intended goals for its students. Assessment results are used to evaluate programs and curricula, not individual students.

Although the data collected are maintained in the institution’s computer database, they are not included on official transcripts, nor are the aggregated data used for any purpose other than comparative analysis. The long-range goals of outcomes assessment are to identify and rectify the University’s shortcomings and build upon its strengths. Only by examining closely the effects of what it does can the University become a stronger and continuously improving institution.

The University’s commitment to assessing its effectiveness necessitates the participation of students, who are required to be involved directly in the evaluation of the various academic major programs as well as the General Education curriculum.