Degree Qualifications Profile 2.0

National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment

The Degree Qualification Profile (DQP) 2.0 is a learning outcomes framework that articulates what graduates should know and be able to do upon earning higher education degrees.

What This Includes

Skill addressed: Ethical Reasoning, Global Learning, Civic, Social & Environmental Reasoning, Engaging Diverse Perspectives, Use of Information Resources, Analytical & Cooperative Learning

DPQ 2.0 tool

A framework of learning competencies in the areas of specialized knowledge, broad and integrative knowledge, intellectual skills, applied and collaborative learning, and civic and global learning, with narrative that describes and illustrates each
Presented in different formats, including a matrix showing each learning competency across three levels of higher education (associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees), a spider web diagram showing the flexibility of the DQP across institutions and programs with varying missions and goals, and, lastly, a grid format for at-a-glance viewing

Implementation guidance

Discusses Tuning, a process by which institutions can develop reference points along a pathway to a credential in a particular field of study within the context of the DQP
Offers examples of using the DQP to develop assignments and assessment, map curricula, and design rubrics
Provides examples of how higher education institutions have used the DQP
Offers definitions of key DQP terms

Key Takeaways

DQP 2.0 articulates what graduates with associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees should be able to do upon completion of their schooling.
The DQP framework can help learners clarify what they are expected to learn and make choices about higher education disciplines and institutions.
DQP 2.0 can be used by instructors and administrators to clarify and review learning outcomes, map curricula, review degree proficiencies, enhance assessment, provide transfer and articulation guidance, and assist with accreditation and strategic planning.

Background

The original Degree Qualifications Profile (DQP) was released in 2011 by the Lumina Foundation with the understanding that it was a beta version that would be further tested and refined. The current version, DQP 2.0, was released in 2014 and written by Cliff Adelman, Peter Ewell, Paul Gaston, and Cindy Geary Schneider, with contributions from higher education institutions, policy groups, and accrediting associations. The DQP has been used and tested by more than 400 colleges and universities, four accrediting associations, and several constituency organizations, including the Council of Independent Colleges, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, and the Association of American Colleges and Universities. Under the guidance of the National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment (NILOA), an updated version, DQP 3.0, is scheduled to be released in 2021.

Tags: Adaptability & Flexibility, Communication, Critical & Creative Thinking, Leadership & Initiative, Navigating & Using Information, Respecting Differences, Teamwork & Collaboration, Credentialing & Badging, Skills Framework, Online, Free, Higher Education