What are Graduate Profile Outcomes (GPOs)?
Graduate Profile Outcomes describe what a learner will know, understand, and be able to do by the time they complete a qualification.
Key points about GPOs, they:
- sit at programme or qualification level and specification
- are fixed and stay consistent across all courses
- describe overall capability and readiness
- align with the level of the qualification
In simple terms, GPOs answer the question: “What kind of graduate will this qualification produce?”
What are Learning Outcomes (LOs)?
Learning Outcomes describe what learners will achieve by the end of a course or module.
Key points about LO, they:
- link directly to one or more GPOs
- break GPOs into clear, smaller outcomes
- focus on specific knowledge and skills
- use clear action verbs that describe observable learning
- guide teaching, activities, and assessment
In simple terms, LOs answer the question:
“What will learners be able to do at the end of this course?”
How GPOs and LOs Work Together
Programme design works top‑down:
- GPOs define the overall intent of the qualification
- LOs break intent into achievable parts at course level
- Assessment measures whether learners have met the LOs
For alignment to be strong:
- Each LO must clearly sit under a GPO
- The level and intent of the LO must match the GPO
- The LO should make a meaningful contribution to achieving the GPO
A useful check is to ask: “If a learner achieves all the LOs, would they reasonably meet the GPO?”
Examples
Example 1: Aligned GPO and LO
Graduate Profile Outcome
- Apply knowledge and skills in professional contexts
Learning Outcome
- Apply theoretical concepts to solve defined workplace problems
Why this works:
- The level of learning is consistent
- Both use the verb apply
- The LO is specific, but still reflects the intent of the GPO
Example 2: Misaligned GPO and LO
Graduate Profile Outcome
- Analyse and evaluate complex professional practice
Learning Outcome
- Describe key concepts related to professional practice
Why this is a problem:
- Achieving the LO would not meaningfully support the GPO
- Describe is a low‑level verb
- The LO does not reflect analysis or evaluation
Common Issues to Watch For
- LOs that are too simple for the qualification level
- LOs that focus on coverage of content rather than learning
- Using vague verbs such as understand or be aware of
- LOs that do not clearly connect to any GPO
These issues often lead to assessment misalignment and moderation feedback.
For more:
GPO’s vs LO’s
Types of Assessments
Aligning GPOs, Learning Outcomes, and Assessment Types
Programme Design: Why Alignment Matters
Level Descriptors Guide