Learning Goals

GPAS maintains the primary objective of training future leaders in the field of Atmospheric Science. Our M.S. and Ph.D. students are expected to assume leading roles in research, teaching, industry, business, and government.

Learning Goal 1: Exhibit scholarship and research skills in the field of Atmospheric Science

Assessment of student achievement of Goal 1:

1. Grades in graduate courses
2. Qualifying examinations assessing depth and breadth of knowledge
3. Review by faculty of student progress with close advising and mentoring
4. Presentations at local, national, and international scientific meetings
5. Production of a dissertation and scholarly, peer-reviewed publications
6. Self-reported student learning outcomes as indicated in exit surveys
7. Placement in positions and careers that require ability and scholarship in this field.

Roles of the GPAS in helping students to achieve Goal 1:

1. Evaluate teaching effectiveness of instructors in graduate courses and if effectiveness is below expectations, work with instructors to improve effectiveness
2. Periodic review of curricular offerings and assessment tools by program faculty, the GPAS program director, and through exit surveys completed by students upon graduation
3. Host regular meetings of the graduate faculty
4. Seek funds for the support of students

Learning Goal 2: Engage in and conduct original research

Assessment of graduate student achievement of Goal 2:

1. Preparation of and defense of Ph.D. dissertation proposal
2. Assessment of quality of Ph.D. dissertation through: critical reading of dissertation by committee of graduate faculty members and a committee member from outside of the specific Rutgers graduate program; a public dissertation defense; and submission and acceptance of peer-reviewed articles and conference papers based on the dissertation
3. Achievement of students based on professional placement, conference presentations, peer-reviewed                 publications and individual grant attainment.

Roles of GPAS in helping graduate students to achieve Goal 2:

1. Provide early introduction to research methods and opportunities for research
2. Provide opportunities to present research and receive feedback
3. Maintain adequate funding levels through the research phase
4. Provide comprehensive advising and assist in the identification of mentors
5. Provide assistance to students seeking external funding
6. Assist students in obtaining supplemental funding for graduate student travel, developing dissertation proposals, and presenting research results at conferences.
7. Establish standards for membership in the GPAS Faculty and outside members of student committees
8. Recognize students for research accomplishments through nominations for local and national research awards, first authorship in research publications, and local presentations of research results

Learning Goal 3: Develop professional skills

Assessment of graduate student achievement of Goal 3:

1. Review papers presented, publications and professional networking
2. Obtain teaching experience through enrollment in Introduction to College Teaching I and II
3. Participate in activities designed to enhance interview, presentation, and proposal writing skills and understanding of funding agencies and other funding mechanisms
4. Pursue interdisciplinary interests
5. Participate in professional societies
6. Explore non-academic career opportunities.

Roles of GPAS in helping graduate students to achieve Goal 3:

1. Provide feedback on scholarly publications and presentation and introduce students to colleagues at other institutions
2. Provide opportunities for graduate students to serve as teaching assistants
3. Encourage students to make local presentations and involve them in the development of research proposals
4. Facilitate development of good time management skills
5. Provide overviews of federal and state research programs
6. Expose students to seminars and other materials with non-academic career foci