Learning Aims

I.  Intellectual Rigor

• critical thinking—the ability to evaluate a claim, analyze a problem, and make sound judgments based on evidence
• the ability to understand and employ the scientific method
• the ability to use mathematical concepts and procedures competently and to evaluate claims made in numeric terms
• a broad grounding in the liberal arts and sciences
• excellence in a discipline or combination of disciplines

II.  A Sense of the Timeless and the Timely

• an understanding of the interconnectedness of all knowledge
• appreciation for intellectual endeavor and the life of the mind
• the ability to connect the endeavors and events of the past with current events and future action

III.  Eloquentia Perfecta

• the ability to use speech and writing effectively, logically, gracefully, persuasively, and responsibly
• competence in a language other than one’s own

IV.  Aesthetics

• an appreciation of beauty, both natural and man-made
• a cultivated response to the arts, including the ability to express oneself about aesthetic experience

V.  Engagement

• the use of knowledge to improve understanding and effect positive change
• development of intellectual curiosity, honesty, humility, and persistence
• life-long love of learning

VI.  Self-Reflection

• a habit of reflecting on one’s intellectual and moral journey, the practice of discernment
• the practice of reading and rereading
• thoughtfulness and intentionality about the appropriate use of leisure time

VII.  Intellectual Independence

• begin to establish ownership of one’s own advanced scholarship
• begin to establish a personal library of books and readings to take through one’s life

VIII.  Intellectual Fellowship

• formation of intellectual friendships with students and faculty
• development of a four-year mentoring relationship with a faculty member

IX.  Jesuit Faith and Mission

• an understanding of the mission of the Catholic university as an institution dedicated to exploring the intersection of faith and reason
• an understanding of the history and mission of the Society of Jesus
• a habit of reflection
• an appreciation of and concern about the great moral issues of our time