Ph.D. Degree Learning Goals and Assessment
Approved: November 18, 2011
The goal of the PhD degree in Linguistics at Rutgers University is to train students at an advanced level in the scientific study of the human language faculty, so that they can assume positions of leadership in research and teaching in this area.
Learning Goal 1 for Students
Attain marked ability, scholarship, and research skills in the area of linguistics.
Assessment of Student Achievement
- Grades in graduate courses
- Two qualifying papers, assessing depth and breadth of knowledge in two different subareas of the field
- Review by faculty of student progress with close advising and mentoring
- Placement in positions and careers that require ability and scholarship in linguistics
Role of the Program
- Close advising to assure that students are being prepared in a coherent and academically rigorous fashion
- Effective monitoring of student progress, including interviews with the GPD once per semester and semesterly meetings of the faculty
- Evaluations of teaching effectiveness of instructors in graduate courses
- If effectiveness is below expectations, work with instructors to improve effectiveness
- Periodic review of curricular offerings, program structure, and assessment tools
- By program faculty
- In consultation with the graduate school dean and/or unit dean
Learning Goal 2 for Students
Engage in and conduct original research.
Assessment of Student Achievement
- Preparation of and defense of a Ph.D. dissertation proposal
- Assessment of quality of Ph.D. dissertation
- Public defense of dissertation
- Critical reading of dissertation by a committee of graduate faculty members and a committee member from outside the linguistics program
- Submission and acceptance of peer-reviewed articles and conference papers based on qualifying projects and dissertation research
- Student achievement as evidenced by professional placements, publications, and grant attainment
Role of the Program
- Early introduction to research methods through coursework, mentoring, reading groups, and research meetings
- Effective mentorship at each stage of the research process
- Opportunities to present research and receive feedback from the linguistics community
- Assistance in securing adequate funding support
- Comprehensive advising and support in setting intermediate research goals
Learning Goal 3 for Students
Prepare to be professionals in linguistics and related areas.
Assessment of Student Achievement
- Review of papers presented, publications, and professional networking
- Teaching opportunities and evaluations of teaching effectiveness
- Collection of placement data
Role of the Program
- Training and mentoring for graduate teachers in collaboration with teaching development programs
- Encouragement to enroll in Introduction to College Teaching I and II
- In-house professional development in areas such as research ethics, presentation skills, CV