College of Science

Undergraduate Curriculum Initiative

Background of Initiative

Jeffrey Vitter"The world of Science has changed in the forty years since the School of Science was formed at Purdue University as a separate unit. Our mission for undergraduate education remains to provide core competencies in the sciences. However, it is important to provide an education that prepares students for their future as scientists, educators, industrialists, entrepreneurs, governmental leaders and informed citizens." Official charge of Jeffrey Vitter, College of Science Dean (August 15, 2003.)


The Undergraduate Education Task Force of the College of Science was formed to address key goals of the College of Science Strategic Plan -- to provide innovative courses, curricula, and learning environments. The task force focused on the following issues:

  1. A reassessment of the goals of undergraduate education in the College of Science with a focus on the core elements important for all majors in the College of Science, which we call the desired outcomes.
  2. Recruitment and retention of qualified undergraduate students in Science, with attention to providing access to a science education for a diverse population.
  3. Development of strategies to address these issues and desired outcomes.

With considerable input and involvement from faculty, advisors, students, and alumni, the Task Force identified six primary learning outcomes for Science undergraduates, proposed new curricular and co-curricular models to meet those outcomes, and developed strategies for assessment.

The job of fleshing out the curriculum and preparing it for College-wide adoption was then handed to the Undergraduate Education Policy and Curriculum Committee, overseen by the Faculty Council of the College. A pilot program was instituted for all entering freshmen in two majors (actuarial sciences and earth & atmospheric sciences) during the 2006-2007 academic year. The full curriculum was approved by faculty vote in April 2007 for College-wide implementation starting with the 2007-2008 academic year.