Student Learning Outcome Assessment within the Texas State University MPA Program

Abstract

The primary purpose of this research is to describe the extent to which the five student learning outcomes of the Texas State University MPA Program are demonstrated by its graduating students. The capstone assignment within the program, a research paper and oral examination, is the unit of analysis for the study. The methodology involves a survey of capstone projects performed by committee and a survey of graduating students. Descriptive statistics of percentages and modes are used to describe what outcomes are in evidence. The results indicate that the desired learning outcomes are demonstrated by an overwhelming majority of MPA students.