Educational Goals

As an academic institution in the Christian tradition of the Evangelical Friends Church, Malone University is committed to intellectual enrichment in the context of Christian faith. We strive to provide an education that produces graduates with a love of truth and a vibrant, mature faith. Our intent is that students attain the wisdom, knowledge, and skills necessary to serve, engage, and transform the communities in which they live and work. To this end, we provide the curricular and co-curricular context in which to pursue the following educational goals.

1. Understand and critically engage those bodies of knowledge and cultural influences that have shaped the world. Meeting this goal requires that students
    
   1. understand, appreciate, and engage the intellectual traditions and social influences that shape American culture;
       
   2. understand, appreciate, and engage diverse views and cultures, including international perspectives;
       
   3. develop an enriched understanding of the nature of human identity, development, and behavior;
       
   4. comprehend central concepts and employ key methods of inquiry of the natural and social sciences, fine arts, and humanities.
       
2. Understand the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of the Christian faith. Meeting this goal requires that students
    
   1. know the central content and themes of the Bible, as well as key methods of biblical study;
       
   2. understand the main contours of Christian history and theology, including those central to the Evangelical Friends’ heritage;
       
   3. understand and respond to Christian approaches to ethical and social issues inherent in learning and living.
       
3. Think critically and creatively and communicate effectively in multiple contexts. Meeting this goal requires that students
    
   1. read and listen to the ideas of others with understanding and discernment;
       
   2. develop the reasoning skills necessary to evaluate and construct arguments well;
       
   3. become proficient in problem solving, using both quantitative and qualitative approaches;
       
   4. speak and write clearly and effectively;
       
   5. develop skills in creative thought and expression.
       
4. Attain expertise in at least one profession or academic discipline and lay the foundation for meaningful work or further studies at the graduate level. Meeting this goal requires that students
    
   1. understand the content, methods, and assumptions of their chosen field(s) of expertise;
       
   2. explore interdisciplinary connections between their chosen field(s) and other disciplines;
       
   3. understand their personal aptitudes, gifts, and limitations, as they discern their vocational callings;
       
   4. develop the ability to gather and reflect on relevant information and use technological resources;
       
   5. apply specialized knowledge and skills constructively in collaboration with others.
       
5. Explore the implications of the Christian faith for all areas of living, including intellectual, spiritual, and community pursuits. Meeting this goal requires that students
    
   1. read and think about the relevance of Christian faith to academic and vocational inquiry;
       
   2. develop wisdom and appreciate the value of thoughtful reflection throughout a lifetime of learning;
       
   3. understand and consider a lifetime commitment to follow Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord;
       
   4. develop relationships characterized by love, compassion, and service to others;
       
   5. recognize the ways in which a Christian view of human life encourages the pursuit of integrity, wellness, and stewardship of all the gifts and resources entrusted by God;
       
   6. be challenged to embrace God’s call by serving as agents of justice, reconciliation, peace, and truth who extend Christ’s kingdom in their churches, communities, and the world.