Mission of The College of Education

Academic programs in the College of Education derive from the mission of the University and the College. The University of Alabama, the State's oldest public university, is the senior comprehensive doctoral-level institution in Alabama. Established by constitutional provision, with successive statutory mandates and authorizations, the University's purpose is to advance the intellectual and social condition of all the people of the State through quality programs of research, instruction, and service. The University of Alabama centers its activities on a broad base of active research programs, many of which are recognized for their contributions to the economic, technological, and cultural growth of the State and region. This research focus, in turn, yields continuing stimulation for the instructional programs offered by its fifteen colleges and schools and is supported by a nationally designated research library.

The College of Education, as a part of the premier educational institution in Alabama, strives to provide teaching, research, and service that not only address State and regional interests but also accommodate national and international perspectives.

As such it is assumed that the

--College of Education's mission will be met primarily through its high quality graduate programs.
--College of Education's undergraduate programs will be upper-division, selective-enrollment programs designed to demonstrate superior professional preparation.
--College of Education will make the most effective use of personnel and resources.

To accomplish this mission the College of Education will

--Provide research-based, professional preparation programs utilizing bestpractice curriculum and instructional techniques.
--Foster basic and applied research related to educational issues, and synthesize and interpret research about sound content, practice, and policy.
--Provide service to professional community, public, and private sector agencies.