University Core Competencies

Core competencies are the learning outcomes that all Strayer University graduates are expected to demonstrate. These competencies align with the University’s mission, central values, and with the program goals and course objectives of all Strayer University degree offerings. By providing adult learners with the core competencies needed to enhance their lives and their places of work, the University contributes to the intellectual, social, cultural and economic well-being of its graduates.

Among the outcomes expected for student learning are the following core competencies:

• Professional competence – the ability to apply the knowledge and skills of their disciplines to real-world settings to the benefit of their professions;
• Communication skills – the ability to effectively interpret, compose and articulate ideas and information in a variety of formats and presentation methods;
• Critical thinking – the ability to analyze, evaluate and construct arguments based on their merits;
• Analytical reasoning – the ability to identify, evaluate and solve problems using quantitative and qualitative information;
• Information literacy – the ability to locate, critically evaluate, and effectively use information for the purposes intended to include decision-making and problem-solving;
• Ethical behavior – the ability to evaluate complex issues and situations and make informed ethical choices.