Unveiling the Secrets to Success: Discover the Power of GCU Mission Competencies

Grand Canyon University’s mission competencies are the set of skills and attributes that the university believes are essential for its graduates to possess. These competencies are: critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.

These competencies are important because they are the skills that employers are looking for in new graduates. They are also the skills that will help graduates to be successful in their careers and in life. GCU’s mission competencies are based on the university’s mission statement, which is to “educate students to become global citizens, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible leaders.”

The university has developed a variety of programs and initiatives to help students develop these competencies. These include:

• The Core Curriculum, which requires all students to take courses in critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.
• The GCU Learning Model, which is a student-centered approach to learning that emphasizes active learning and collaboration.
• The Career Services Center, which provides students with resources and support to help them find jobs and internships.

gcu mission competencies

Grand Canyon University’s mission competencies are the essential skills and attributes that the university believes its graduates must possess to be successful in their careers and lives. These competencies are:

• Critical thinking
• Problem solving
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Ethical decision-making
• Global citizenship
• Leadership
• Service
• Sustainability

These competencies are embedded in all of GCU’s academic programs and are reinforced through a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities. For example, students are required to take courses in critical thinking, problem solving, and communication. They also have the opportunity to participate in research projects, internships, and service-learning projects. These experiences help students to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their careers and lives.

GCU’s mission competencies are essential for graduates to succeed in today’s global economy. These competencies help students to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively. They also help students to become responsible citizens and leaders who are committed to making a positive difference in the world.

Critical thinking

Critical thinking is an essential skill for students to develop in order to succeed in their studies and careers. It is the ability to think clearly and rationally about what to do or what to believe.

• Analyzing

  Critical thinkers can analyze information and arguments to identify their strengths and weaknesses. They can also identify biases and assumptions.

• Evaluating

  Critical thinkers can evaluate the quality of information and arguments. They can also make judgments about the credibility of sources.

• Reasoning

  Critical thinkers can use logic and reasoning to develop sound arguments. They can also identify fallacies in reasoning.

• Problem-solving

  Critical thinkers can use their skills to solve problems. They can identify the root cause of a problem and develop creative solutions.

Critical thinking is a key component of GCU’s mission competencies. It is essential for students to be able to think critically in order to succeed in their studies and careers. GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their critical thinking skills, including through coursework, research projects, and internships.

Problem solving

Problem solving is an essential skill for students to develop in order to succeed in their studies and careers. It is the ability to identify and solve problems in an effective and efficient manner.

• Identifying the problem

  The first step in solving a problem is to identify the problem clearly and concisely. This may seem like a simple step, but it is often the most difficult. Once the problem has been identified, it is important to gather all of the relevant information.

• Generating solutions

  Once the problem has been identified, the next step is to generate possible solutions. This can be done through brainstorming, research, or consulting with others. It is important to consider all possible solutions, even if they seem unconventional.

• Evaluating solutions

  Once a number of possible solutions have been generated, the next step is to evaluate each solution. This can be done by considering the pros and cons of each solution, as well as the likelihood of success.

• Implementing the solution

  Once a solution has been selected, it is important to implement the solution in a timely and effective manner. This may involve taking action, delegating tasks, or making changes to existing processes.

Problem solving is a key component of GCU’s mission competencies. It is essential for students to be able to solve problems in order to succeed in their studies and careers. GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their problem-solving skills, including through coursework, research projects, and internships.

Communication

Communication is one of the most important gcu mission competencies. It is the ability to effectively convey information, ideas, and thoughts to others. Communication is essential for success in both personal and professional life.

• Verbal communication

  Verbal communication is the ability to speak and write clearly and effectively. This includes being able to organize your thoughts, articulate your ideas, and use language that is appropriate for your audience.

• Nonverbal communication

  Nonverbal communication is the ability to communicate through body language, facial expressions, and eye contact. This type of communication can be just as important as verbal communication, and it can often convey messages that words cannot.

• Listening

  Listening is an essential part of communication. It is the ability to pay attention to what others are saying, both verbally and nonverbally. Listening helps you to understand others’ perspectives and build relationships.

• Interpersonal communication

  Interpersonal communication is the ability to communicate effectively with others on a personal level. This includes being able to build rapport, resolve conflict, and provide support.

Communication is a key component of gcu mission competencies because it is essential for success in both personal and professional life. GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their communication skills, including through coursework, research projects, and internships.

Collaboration

Collaboration is a key gcu mission competency. It is the ability to work effectively with others to achieve a common goal. Collaboration is essential for success in both personal and professional life.

• Communication
  Collaboration requires effective communication. Team members need to be able to share ideas, information, and feedback in order to work together effectively.
• Trust
  Collaboration requires trust. Team members need to trust each other to be honest, reliable, and committed to the project.
• Respect
  Collaboration requires respect. Team members need to respect each other’s opinions, ideas, and contributions.
• Conflict resolution
  Collaboration requires conflict resolution skills. Team members need to be able to resolve conflicts in a constructive and productive manner.

Collaboration is a key component of gcu mission competencies because it is essential for success in both personal and professional life. GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their collaboration skills, including through coursework, research projects, and internships.

Ethical decision-making

Ethical decision-making is a key component of gcu mission competencies. It is the ability to make decisions that are consistent with ethical principles and values. Ethical decision-making is essential for success in both personal and professional life.

• Recognizing ethical issues

  The first step in ethical decision-making is to recognize ethical issues. This can be difficult, as ethical issues are not always clear-cut. However, it is important to be able to identify ethical issues in order to make informed decisions.

• Gathering information

  Once you have identified an ethical issue, it is important to gather information about the issue. This information can help you to understand the different perspectives on the issue and to make an informed decision.

• Evaluating options

  Once you have gathered information about the issue, you need to evaluate your options. This involves weighing the pros and cons of each option and considering the ethical implications of each option.

• Making a decision

  Once you have evaluated your options, you need to make a decision. This decision should be based on your ethical principles and values.

• Taking action

  Once you have made a decision, you need to take action. This may involve implementing your decision or advocating for your decision.

Ethical decision-making is a complex process, but it is an essential skill for success in both personal and professional life. GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their ethical decision-making skills, including through coursework, research projects, and internships.

Global citizenship

Global citizenship is a key component of GCU’s mission competencies. It is the ability to think and act in ways that promote the well-being of both local and global communities. Global citizens are aware of the interconnectedness of the world and their place within it. They are committed to social justice, environmental sustainability, and peace.

• Understanding global issues

  Global citizens have a deep understanding of global issues such as poverty, climate change, and inequality. They are able to see these issues from multiple perspectives and to identify the root causes of these issues.

• Respecting diversity

  Global citizens respect the diversity of cultures, religions, and perspectives. They are open to learning about new cultures and are willing to challenge their own assumptions.

• Taking action

  Global citizens are not just passive observers. They are actively involved in working to make the world a better place. They volunteer their time, donate to charities, and advocate for social justice.

The development of global citizenship is essential for the success of GCU’s mission. By preparing students to be global citizens, GCU is helping to create a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world.

Leadership

Leadership is a key component of gcu mission competencies. It is the ability to influence and motivate others to achieve a common goal. Leaders are able to inspire others to follow their vision and to work together to achieve great things.

• Vision

  Leaders have a clear vision for the future. They are able to articulate their vision in a way that inspires others to follow them. Vision is essential for any leader, as it provides a sense of direction and purpose.

• Communication

  Leaders are able to communicate their vision and ideas effectively. They are able to speak and write clearly and persuasively. Communication is essential for leaders, as it allows them to share their vision with others and to build support for their ideas.

• Motivation

  Leaders are able to motivate others to follow them. They are able to create a positive and inspiring work environment. Motivation is essential for leaders, as it allows them to get the best out of their team.

• Decision-making

  Leaders are able to make sound decisions. They are able to weigh the pros and cons of different options and make decisions that are in the best interests of the team. Decision-making is essential for leaders, as it allows them to make informed decisions that will help the team to achieve its goals.

Leadership is an essential skill for anyone who wants to be successful in their career. GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their leadership skills, including through coursework, research projects, and internships.

Service

Service is a key component of GCU’s mission competencies. It is the ability to use one’s skills and talents to help others. Service is essential for success in both personal and professional life.

• Volunteering

  Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and make a difference in the lives of others. There are many different volunteer opportunities available, so you can find one that fits your interests and skills. Volunteering is a great way to develop your leadership skills, teamwork skills, and communication skills.

• Mentoring

  Mentoring is a great way to share your knowledge and experience with others. As a mentor, you can help others to develop their skills, achieve their goals, and overcome challenges. Mentoring is a great way to give back to your community and make a difference in the lives of others.

• Teaching

  Teaching is a great way to share your knowledge and experience with others. As a teacher, you can help others to learn new skills, develop their critical thinking skills, and become lifelong learners. Teaching is a great way to make a difference in the lives of others.

• Community service

  Community service is a great way to give back to your community. There are many different community service opportunities available, so you can find one that fits your interests and skills. Community service is a great way to develop your leadership skills, teamwork skills, and communication skills.

Service is essential for success in both personal and professional life. By serving others, you can make a difference in the world and develop valuable skills that will benefit you in your career.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a key component of GCU’s mission competencies. It is the ability to make decisions and take actions that will protect the environment and ensure the well-being of future generations. Sustainability is essential for the success of both our planet and our society.

• Environmental stewardship

  Environmental stewardship is the responsible use and protection of the natural environment. This includes conserving resources, reducing pollution, and protecting biodiversity. GCU students learn about environmental stewardship through coursework, research projects, and internships. They also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of sustainability initiatives on campus, such as recycling, composting, and energy conservation.

• Social responsibility

  Social responsibility is the obligation of businesses and individuals to behave in a way that benefits society as a whole. This includes respecting human rights, promoting social justice, and contributing to the well-being of communities. GCU students learn about social responsibility through coursework, research projects, and internships. They also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of social responsibility initiatives on campus, such as volunteering, mentoring, and community service.

• Economic viability

  Economic viability is the ability of a business or organization to operate profitably and sustainably over the long term. This includes using resources efficiently, reducing waste, and investing in renewable energy. GCU students learn about economic viability through coursework, research projects, and internships. They also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of economic viability initiatives on campus, such as starting their own businesses, developing new products and services, and investing in sustainable technologies.

• Global citizenship

  Global citizenship is the recognition that we are all part of a global community and that our actions have an impact on people all over the world. This includes respecting diversity, promoting peace, and working to create a more just and equitable world. GCU students learn about global citizenship through coursework, research projects, and internships. They also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of global citizenship initiatives on campus, such as studying abroad, volunteering with international organizations, and advocating for social change.

Sustainability is essential for the success of GCU’s mission. By preparing students to be sustainability leaders, GCU is helping to create a more sustainable future for our planet and our society.

FAQs about GCU Mission Competencies

What are GCU Mission Competencies?

GCU Mission Competencies are the essential skills and attributes that Grand Canyon University believes its graduates must possess to be successful in their careers and lives.

Why are GCU Mission Competencies important?

GCU Mission Competencies are important because they are the skills that employers are looking for in new graduates. They are also the skills that will help graduates to be successful in their careers and in life.

What are the GCU Mission Competencies?

The GCU Mission Competencies are:

• Critical thinking
• Problem solving
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Ethical decision-making
• Global citizenship
• Leadership
• Service
• Sustainability

How can I develop my GCU Mission Competencies?

GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their Mission Competencies, including:

• The Core Curriculum, which requires all students to take courses in critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.
• The GCU Learning Model, which is a student-centered approach to learning that emphasizes active learning and collaboration.
• The Career Services Center, which provides students with resources and support to help them find jobs and internships.

What are the benefits of developing my GCU Mission Competencies?

There are many benefits to developing your GCU Mission Competencies, including:

• Increased employability
• Improved job performance
• Greater success in your career
• A more fulfilling life

How can I learn more about GCU Mission Competencies?

You can learn more about GCU Mission Competencies by visiting the GCU website or by talking to your academic advisor.

Tips for Developing GCU Mission Competencies

GCU Mission Competencies are essential skills and attributes that will help you succeed in your career and life. Here are a few tips for developing these competencies:

1. Take advantage of GCU’s resources. GCU provides students with a variety of resources to help them develop their mission competencies, including the Core Curriculum, the GCU Learning Model, and the Career Services Center. Take advantage of these resources to get the most out of your education.

2. Get involved in extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities are a great way to develop your mission competencies outside of the classroom. Join a club or organization that aligns with your interests, or volunteer your time to a cause you care about.

3. Seek out opportunities to practice your skills. The best way to develop your mission competencies is to practice them as often as possible. Look for opportunities to work on projects that require critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.

4. Reflect on your experiences. Take time to reflect on your experiences and identify the skills you are developing. What are you good at? What areas do you need to improve? This will help you focus your efforts and develop a plan for continued growth.

5. Seek feedback from others. Ask your professors, peers, and supervisors for feedback on your performance. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and develop a plan for improvement.

By following these tips, you can develop the GCU Mission Competencies that will help you succeed in your career and life.

Key takeaways:

• GCU provides a variety of resources to help students develop their mission competencies.
• Extracurricular activities are a great way to develop mission competencies outside of the classroom.
• The best way to develop mission competencies is to practice them as often as possible.
• Reflecting on your experiences and seeking feedback from others can help you identify areas for improvement.

Developing GCU Mission Competencies takes time and effort, but it is worth it. These competencies will help you succeed in your career and life, and make a positive difference in the world.

Conclusion

GCU Mission Competencies are the essential skills and attributes that Grand Canyon University believes its graduates must possess to be successful in their careers and lives. These competencies include critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, ethical decision-making, global citizenship, leadership, service, and sustainability. GCU provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop these competencies, including through coursework, research projects, internships, and extracurricular activities.

Developing GCU Mission Competencies takes time and effort, but it is worth it. These competencies will help graduates to be successful in their careers and lives, and to make a positive difference in the world.