Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) occur at three levels. 

• CSLOs (Course Student Learning Outcomes) - describe the knowledge and skills students develop by the end of a course
• PSLOs (Program-Level Student Learning Outcomes) - describe the knowledge and skills students develop by the end of a degree or certification program (this page)
• ISLOs (Institutional Student Learning Outcomes) - describe knowledge, skill, abilities, and attitudes that students develop from all aspects of their college experience including courses, programs, departments, and services

Program-Level Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs) are broader than Course Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs). They describe competencies that students will achieve upon completion of a degree program or certification. PSLOs should be addressed in multiple courses across the curriculum. 

Guide to Program-Level Student Learning Outcomes

The process of developing and regularly updating PSLOs invites faculty to reflect on and translate disciplinary knowledge and skills into clear expectations for students in a program (CTE Certificate, AA, ADT). Non-instructional student service programs (e.g., counseling, DPSP, transfer center, etc.) can use PSLOs to assess how to best serve students.  At PCC, program faculty are responsible for developing and regularly updating PSLOs that demonstrate student learning with respect to the core elements of the program’s curriculum.

How are PSLOs Developed, Reviewed, and Updated?

One element of the Comprehensive Program Review process focuses on Program Level Student Learning Outcomes to ensure they are reflective of the program in its current state. During the Program Review process, which functions on a 4-year cycle, program review authors are required to review current PLSOs for each of the degrees and/or certificates within the department/discipline. There is a space to briefly discuss the process authors used to review and update their PSLOs as well as a mechanism for uploading proposed new/updated sets of PSLOs for each degree/certificate. Once completed in the Program Review process, the proposed outcomes must be submitted to C & I for approval and official distribution.

PCC EXAMPLE

Program: Certified Nursing Assistant Occupational Skills Certificate 
PSLOs: Students will be assessed on their ability to 

1. Apply the principles of nursing concepts and skills essential to the function of a certified nurse assistant in the direct care of patients in the healthcare setting.
2. Demonstrate safe and competent care within the scope of certified nurse assistant practice, utilizing the characteristics of professional and ethical behavior and attitude.
3. Use effective communication techniques with patients, families, and healthcare members within the context of the healthcare environment.
4. Employ compassionate nursing care based on respect for patient's preference, values, and needs in a culturally diverse healthcare setting.