The College of Natural and Social Sciences participates fully in the traditional missions of teaching, research, and service. Teaching is the most important responsibility of the faculty and is served through the College's commitment to an academically sound general studies program, majors in the liberal arts and professional programs, coordinated support of programs offered by other Colleges in the University, and selected graduate programs.
The curriculum provides students with a scientific and humanistic perspective which is necessary for a quality liberal arts education. Students in the College are encouraged to develop habits of critical thinking, to value academic rigor, to appreciate the complexity and diversity of the human condition and the world around them, and to develop a base of knowledge which will allow them to be successful and responsible members of the community. The College's commitment to excellence in teaching is complemented by its commitment to scholarship. Faculty and students in the College engage in research and other scholarly activities to generate knowledge, to learn and practice their chosen professions, to be current in their disciplines, and to create a stimulating learning environment.
The College is also committed to service. Faculty serve students, the University, and the community through consulting, outreach programs, participating in professional organizations, involvement in the community, and by serving on College and University committees. Ultimately, the College exists to educate students; its overarching goal is to provide students with the best and most challenging education possible.