Tennessee State University Statement of Mission

    Tennessee State University, an 1890 land grant institution, is a major state-supported urban and comprehensive university. This unique combination of characteristics differentiates the University from others and shapes its instructional, research, and service programs designed to serve Metropolitan Nashville, Middle Tennessee, the State of Tennessee, the nation, and the global community. The University is committed to maintaining its diverse student body, faculty and staff.

T    he cupola of the Humanities Building, formerly the Admin-istration Building--from an illustration in the University''s 1954 Yearbook.
Tennessee State University provides quality instruction through academic programs which are broadly comprehensive at the baccalaureate and masters levels. Doctoral programs are offered in select areas where the University exhibits strength in instruction and research and consistent with the University’s unique mission. The University’s educational programs are intended to increase the student’s level of knowledge, enhance the student’s skills, and expand the student’s awareness.

    Tennessee State University is committed to engaging in pure and applied research which contributes to the body of knowledge and which broadens the application of knowledge. Whenever possible, the University strives to provide its students with the opportunity to be involved in the research activities of the faculty and academic staff.

    Tennessee State University serves its constituents through an array of programs and services which apply the knowledge, skills and discoveries of the instructional and research units at the institution. These services are intended to broaden the perspectives and enhance the quality of life of the University’s service constituents.

Another detail from the 1954 Yearbook--featuring a line from the University''s Alma Mater.
Tennessee State University expresses its commitment to students’ overall development by promoting life-long learning, scholarly inquiry, and a commitment of service to others. Programs and services are geared toward promoting and nurturing students’ growth and development as persons who are liberally educated, appreciate cultural diversity, and embody a  sense of civic and social responsibility.
Tennessee State University projects itself to its students, faculty, and alumni and to the citizens of the State through the motto, "Think, Work, Serve."
Tennessee State University remains committed to the education of a non-racially identifiable student body and promotes diversity and access without regard to race, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.