University Statement of Purpose

The University of Richmond is an independent, privately endowed institution of higher education that provides a comprehensive academic program for men and women. It offers the intimacy of a small university and the diverse educational opportunities that derive from undergraduate degree programs in the liberal arts and sciences, business, and leadership studies, as well as graduate and professional programs in law, business, and selected areas of the arts and sciences. The University also provides a variety of credit and continuing education programs as well as cultural events to the larger community. Historically related to the Baptist General Association of Virginia, The University affirms its commitment to serve individuals of all faiths and persuasions.

The educational objectives of the University are:

• to cultivate in students the interest, capacity, and skills necessary for independent intellectual inquiry and life-long learning;
• to convey to students a representative portion of that body of knowledge that has accumulated and endured through the history of world cultures;
• to encourage and aid students in the development of basic beliefs, values, and attitudes, including those of cooperation and tolerance;
• to assist students in selecting and preparing for careers and for study in graduate and professional schools;
• to foster in students personal habits that contribute to health and physical fitness.

In order to achieve these objectives, the University is committed to:

• an educational environment conducive to the development of the whole person--intellectually, socially, spiritually, physically, and morally;
• an academic setting that guarantees and encourages freedom of thought, expression, and association;
• an undergraduate curriculum that requires mastery of essential intellectual tools, awareness of the diversity of human cultural experiences, extensive knowledge of at least one area of study, and opportunities for interdisciplinary and integrative inquiry;
• a faculty dedicated to excellent teaching and dialogue with students, and active engagement in scholarship, scientific inquiry, and artistic creativity;
• a diverse, largely full-time and residential student body that participates in a broad range of University activities including opportunities for research, leadership, and the development of civic responsibility;
• the essential resources for learning, such as libraries, laboratories, studios, information and communications technology, and media resources;
• opportunities for internships, social commitment and public service, and other domestic and international learning experiences;
• a program of varied social, spiritual, and physical activities that provide occasions for growth, fun, and fellowship;
• an administration and staff that preserve and enhance the University's environment and resources, and that represent the institution to the broader community it serves.

Adopted by University of Richmond Board of Trustees
May 16, 1997