Our mission

We are a student-centered research university that cultivates interconnected learning experiences to explore complex ideas and create new knowledge in a spirit of free inquiry. Guided by our commitment to diversity, equity, and service, we prepare individuals to make meaningful contributions to our campus, our community, and our world.

THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA

STRATEGIC PLAN

Facing a higher education landscape with fewer students, tighter budgets and stiffer competition—during a pandemic—The University of Tulsa in January 2021 adopted a new five-year strategic plan that sets the university on a clear path to an exciting future.

The plan builds on our strengths as a highly regarded, small, private research institution with deep roots in the energy industry and a hunger for innovation. It recognizes the global need for cyber leaders and charts a course for growing the talent to supply the next generation of researchers and entrepreneurs in critical fields. It proposes a level of student support that few institutions can offer. And it depends upon the recognition that all degrees—particularly those in STEM and professional disciplines—are exponentially more valuable with a firm foundation in the liberal arts. As we enter into implementation of this plan, we celebrate the shared values it brings forward, including our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion—in word and deed—and continuing to bind the future of the university to the city that shares its name. As TU succeeds, so does Tulsa. The University of Tulsa 2021 Strategic Plan is the result of hours upon hours of input and reflection from TU faculty, staff, students, alumni and key stakeholders. It is underpinned by data and inspired by a visionary Board of Trustees and university leaders who challenged long-held assumptions and explored unconventional ideas. We looked back at the rich history of The University of Tulsa. We looked inward at who we really are right now, and we looked forward to what a reimagined TU could be. As higher education and, indeed, the world experiences overwhelming change, so too, must we. TU’s 2021 strategic plan is the key to a vibrant and sustainable evolution.