STRATEGIC GOALS FOR THE COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES 2003-2007

Goal 1. Improve undergraduate and graduate education.

The primary purpose of the College of Arts & Sciences is to provide quality education. The College's faculty and administration are dedicated to the continual improvement of educational programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. Every effort must be made to ensure that students benefit from the richest possible learning environment in school-based settings (classrooms and labs) and in community-based settings (internships and service learning).

Goal 2. Support faculty development.

A world class university requires a world class faculty. The College is committed to providing each of its more than 300 full-time faculty members with the opportunities and resources to attain his or her fullest scholarly potential. By fostering the academic success of our faculty, we will increase the national and international visibility of the institution and provide the finest possible education for our students.

Goal 3. Support interdisciplinary research and teaching.

Interdisciplinary studies provide faculty and students the opportunity to transcend boundaries between traditional disciplines. The College is working with faculty and the central administration to eliminate barriers to interdisciplinary teaching and research and to develop an environment that encourages these activities.

Goal 4. Strengthen community linkages.

As the heart of the only comprehensive educational institution in the West Tennessee area, the College of Arts & Sciences plays an important role in the life of our community. Eighty-five percent of our students are residents of Memphis/Shelby County and most of our alumni remain in the Memphis area. The College impacts and is impacted by the social and economic climate of the area. The College is committed to forging sustainable partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, non-profits, and other institutions in the furtherance of vital community interests.

Goal 5. Increase external support.

Few investments yield a higher return than a college education. A thriving community requires an educated population. As state funding for higher education continues to shrink, the need to find alternative forms of support becomes increasingly urgent. In order to sustain and improve our academic programs, the College is aggressively pursuing increased funding from research grants, corporate donors, community organizations, and private donors. Back to Top