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SMS Program Assessment

The School of Marine Science (SMS) assessment process was developed and approved by the VIMS Academic Council in March 2016 as the most efficient way to ensure that we are in compliance with the requirements for university accreditation. Specifically, our accrediting body, SACSCOC, requires that we regularly assess the degree to which students are meeting the SMS learning expectations, which were developed by the Academic Council, and then use any findings to improve the graduate program.

Program level assessment takes place throughout the academic year when graduate students complete specific degree program milestones. Students are assessed on the following four learning expectations: knowledge, scholarship, communication and professional development and responsible conduct.

Select a program below to access the appropriate assessment survey and view related information. 

SMS Degree Program Level Assessment Information
M.A. Program

Quick Links: Complete the M.A. Survey | View Sample Rubric

The M.A. program assessment survey is to be completed on the following timeline:

  • Upon completion of the internship by the internship supervisor
  • Upon acceptance of the capstone project by the capstone advisor(s), professional mentor, and M.A. program director

Scoring should reflect proficiency related to that expected of a School of Marine Science M.A. graduate.
M.S. Program

Quick Links: Complete the M.S. Survey | View Sample Rubric

The M.S. program assessment survey is to be completed by the advisor(s) and each committee member on the following timeline:

  • Upon completion of the M.S. qualifying exam
  • Upon completion of the M.S. defense

Scoring should reflect proficiency related to that expected of a School of Marine Science M.S. graduate.
Ph.D. Program

Quick Links: Complete the Ph.D. Survey | View Sample Rubric

The Ph.D. program assessment survey is to be completed by the advisor(s) and each committee member on the following timeline:

  • Upon completion of the Ph.D. qualifying exam
  • Upon completion of the Ph.D. defense

Scoring should reflect proficiency related to that expected of a School of Marine Science Ph.D. graduate.

Please send any comments on the assessment process to your Academic Council representatives or to the [[molly, M.A. Program Director]]. If you encounter any difficulties with the Microsoft Forms survey platform, please contact the [[academicaffairs, Office of Academic Affairs]].

Updated: March 5, 2024 by J. Hay