The statements below represent the overarching educational goals and objectives of Villanova University. Academic and co-curricular departments across the University will collaborate in assisting students to attain these goals and objectives. Individual departments will contribute, in varying ways, to the implementation of those goals and objectives that are appropriate to their program or mission.

Goal 1: Intellectual Development

A. VALUES

Objective: Villanova graduates will demonstrate their engagement in and commitment to the pursuit of knowledge in a manner conducive to life-long learning.

B. KNOWLEDGE

Objective: Villanova graduates will demonstrate their knowledge of: (1) the fundamental facts, concepts, responsibilities, and modes of inquiry related to their academic majors and professions; (2) the intellectual, ethical, and cultural traditions of Western civilization, including Judaeo-Christian, Catholic, and Augustinian traditions and the values and moral principles inherent in them; (3) the role and importance of science and technology; and (4) topics of personal and intellectual interest to them, pursued through their choice of elective courses and other means.

Objective: Villanova graduates will (1) recognize the multidimensionality of human problems and cultures, as well as the interrelatedness of knowledge and (2) demonstrate their awareness of the existence and value of multiple modes of inquiry and approaches to knowledge.

C. SKILLS

Objective: Villanova graduates will demonstrate the following skills: (1) critical analysis; (2) information, quantitative, and scientific literacy; (3) creative problem solving; and (4) oral and written communication.

Goal 2: Personal and Emotional Development

A. VALUES

Objective: Villanova graduates will accept responsibility for the consequences of their own decisions and behavior.

B. KNOWLEDGE

Objective: Villanova graduates will make an initial commitment to a vocational area or work setting compatible with their goals and interests.

C. SKILLS

Objective: Villanova graduates will (1) define a set of personal goals reflective of their values, capabilities, and interests; (2) demonstrate independence and self-direction in personal problem solving and goal attainment, including the ability to find and employ appropriate resources; and (3) establish rewarding friendships/relationships within their peer groups.

Goal 3: Social Development

A. VALUES

Objective: Consistent with their attainment of intellectual goals, Villanova graduates will (1) treat others with compassion, civility, and respect; (2) demonstrate their acceptance of individual, cultural, social, and ideological differences; (3) accept the responsibilities of community membership; and (4) demonstrate respect for the natural environment.

B. SKILLS

Objective: Villanova graduates will (1) manage conflicts productively; (2) work together in teams to accomplish common goals and further the common good; and (3) motivate and coordinate the efforts of others to work toward common goals.

Goal 4: Spiritual and Moral Development

A. VALUES

Objective: Consistent with their attainment of intellectual goals, Villanova graduates will (1) express a mature understanding of self and humanity in relation to God; (2) demonstrate a commitment to ongoing spiritual and moral development; and (3) demonstrate understanding of and respect for different religious traditions and values.

B. SKILLS

Objective: Villanova graduates will (1) demonstrate incorporation of ethical and moral principles in decision making; and (2) demonstrate learned values through service to others, especially the poor and disadvantaged.

Goal 5: Cultural Development

A. VALUES

Objective: Villanova graduates will demonstrate their appreciation of the works produced by intellectual and artistic endeavors, at a level consistent with the requirements of their academic majors and/or their participation in co-curricular cultural activities.

B. KNOWLEDGE

Objective: Villanova graduates will demonstrate their knowledge of the works produced by intellectual and artistic endeavors, at a level consistent with the requirements of their academic majors and/or their participation in co-curricular cultural activities.

Goal 6: Physical Development

A. VALUES

Objective: Villanova graduates will appreciate the role of physical wellness in their present and future development.

B. KNOWLEDGE

Objective: Villanova graduates will demonstrate their understanding of the consequences of life-style choices, as these affect their health and well-being.