The Mission
of the
State University College at Potsdam


The State University College at Potsdam, founded in 1816 and the oldest institution in the State University of New York, is charged with the responsibility of providing educational opportunities to individuals who can benefit from them. Access to its programs and services is granted with due regard to the policies of the SUNY Board of Trustees on non-discrimination and affirmative action. Admission to the College's degree programs is awarded on the basis of selective criteria relating to the academic performance and potential of applicants.

Committed to the tradition of liberal education, Potsdam College offers, primarily in a residential setting, excellent instructional programs in general education and selected liberal arts disciplines through the School of Liberal Studies, professional preparation of elementary and secondary school teachers nurtured through those partnerships with North Country school districts through the School of Professional Studies and performance-based music education through the Crane School of Music. Mindful of its role as a guardian of our cultural heritage, a transmitter of knowledge, a servant and critic of society, and a creator of new knowledge, Potsdam College affirms it purposes to be the following:

  1. To serve the people of New York and beyond by offering, through appropriate means and methods, excellent baccalaureate, master's and continuing education opportunities in the arts and sciences and selected professional disciplines;

  2. To create a student-centered academic culture which encourages innovative approaches to teaching and learning, provides resources to support pedagogical innovation and evaluates the effectiveness of teaching and learning;

  3. To promote an environment for students of all ages in which their participation in academic, professional, cultural, social, athletic, and other activities may be most beneficial and foster their education as individuals and members of society;

  4. To strengthen among members of the campus community an understanding and sensitive awareness of cultural diversity and global connections, and to contribute that understanding and awareness to the larger community;

  5. To contribute to the improvement of teaching and the expansion of knowledge through appropriate programs and endeavors in research, scholarship, and creative activity by its faculty; and

  6. To turn its special expertise and resources to the ends of public service, whether through formal instruction or through consultative contributions to the local community, the state, the nation, and the world.



Document prepared by: R. Jewett [email: jewettrj@potsdam.edu]