Assurance of Learning
Undergraduate Assessment FAQs
The “rumor mill” says I am required to take a “foundation knowledge exam. What is it?
Yes, you will be taking a foundation knowledge assessment as part of your last tier in the Carson College Amplifier Program. This requirement enables the Carson College of Business to provide our professional accreditation body, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), critical data indicating the extent to which graduating students have learned essential business topics and are able to apply them as part of their decision making. At its core, the results drive continuous improvement and program quality efforts for the Carson College of Business.
What is the AACSB and why should I care about it?
AACSB is a nongovernmental accrediting agency and is the longest standing and most recognized professional accreditation body. Achieving AACSB accreditation means the university’s business program has undergone an extensive evaluation of its faculty and curriculum and earned a highly respected “seal of approval” for business studies. It represents the highest standard of achievement for business programs, with less than 5% of schools granting business degrees worldwide earning AACSB accreditation. Most importantly, accreditation provides you with a measure of your university’s program quality, that you are graduating with the skills and abilities to support a successful career in business.
How is the foundation knowledge assessment administered?
It is administered through completion of an activity in your final tier in the Carson College Amplifier Program. You will complete the assessment and upload a certificate of completion to Suitable.
Can I prepare for this assessment?
Yes! The best way to prepare is to truly gain an understanding of the key concepts from your core classes, not just memorize for an exam. You want to be able to apply these concepts in your career, and this assessment helps gauge your ability to do so.
If I have questions, who do I contact?
Chris Cooney, MBA
Director, Undergraduate Assessment
chris.cooney@wsu.edu