Mission, Vision and Values

Mission Statement

students walking on campus

The Colorado Springs campus of the University of Colorado shall be a comprehensive baccalaureate and specialized graduate research university with selective admission standards.

The Colorado Springs campus shall offer liberal arts and sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and teacher preparation undergraduate degree programs, and a selected number of masters and doctoral degree programs.

Vision Statement

UCCS, a premier comprehensive undergraduate and specialized graduate research university, provides students with academically rigorous and life-enriching experiences in a vibrant university community. We advance knowledge, integrate student learning with the spirit of discovery, and broaden access to higher education for the benefit of southern Colorado, the state, the nation, and the world.

Core Values

students sitting in classroom

We see these values of excellence as our guiding principles:

  • Student Focus
  • Integration
  • Innovation
  • Collaboration
  • Inclusive Diversity
  • Dynamic Responsible Growth
  • Integrity

Student Focus

We value students and never forget that students are our reason for being. We consider students and student outcomes in all the decisions we make. We provide a supportive environment in order to create lasting and significant educational experiences for every student.

Integration

We value the integration of teaching with research and creative work. Scholarship enriches teaching and teaching enriches scholarship. We see these activities as interdependent, allowing for synergies that benefit students, faculty, and all members of the university community.

Innovation

We value innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit. We are creative problem solvers in the classroom, in our research, and in our campus operations. We are catalysts for economic, social, and cultural changes in our communities. We provide opportunities for our community members to develop the skills of innovation and creative expression.

Collaboration

We value collaboration and teamwork as absolutely necessary for success in today’s world. We model collaboration in our research, teaching, and campus operations. We actively seek opportunities to collaborate, build partnerships and engage with external organizations.

Inclusive Diversity

We value inclusive diversity as a foundation for teaching and scholarship that prepares students, faculty, staff, and community members for both local and global multicultural realities. We provide an open, safe, and supportive campus environment based on mutual respect, engagement, and learning for everyone including those from the full spectrum of backgrounds, social identities, abilities, cultures, perspectives, and university roles.

Dynamic Responsible Growth

We value dynamic growth while continuing to be financially responsible, academically sound, and environmentally sustainable. We meet the future with energy, enthusiasm, and a commitment to retaining a close, interconnected campus community.

Integrity

We value integrity and expect ethical behavior from each member of the campus community in all interactions. We build an environment where we treat each other with respect and appreciate each other’s contributions.