Curriculum Maps

A curriculum map is a matrix aligning program-level student learning outcomes (SLOs) with the courses for a degree program or major. Program curriculum maps may vary in complexity and structure, to best meet the needs of the program.

Value of Curriculum Maps

Curriculum maps make visible the relationship between courses and program-level SLOs, enabling faculty to design and implement intentional curricula which systematically develop and deepen students’ key skills and knowledge. In this context, curriculum maps can:

• Help each faculty member understand how their course is situated in the curriculum, and the essential contributions their course makes toward advancing program-level SLOs
• Reveal where the curriculum is stronger or weaker in terms of advancing program-level SLOs
• Provide a catalyst for faculty discussions about aligning and scaffolding courses, teaching, and assignments to effectively support student learning
• Help programs plan assessment of program-level SLOs
• Provide a framework for exploring the alignment between the intended, taught, and assessed curriculum

Curriculum Maps at WSU

WSU undergraduate degree programs are responsible for developing and regularly updating curriculum maps for their degree program or majors. Curriculum maps vary in approach and complexity. While a basic curriculum map simply shows which core courses support which program-level SLOs, most curriculum maps indicate an approximate level which a given course targets for a given program-level SLO (e.g., beginning, developing, mastering). Depending on context, some maps may include program electives and/or indicate which courses are available on a given campus.

Curriculum maps are sometimes confused with the schedules of studies published in the WSU Catalog. While a schedule of studies is a complete listing of all courses needed for a degree program shown in a semester-by-semester view, it does not show the relationship between program-level SLOs and courses. For more information about the schedules of studies and the curricular change process, see the WSU Curriculum Change website.