University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia, a charter member of the University System of Georgia, is a selectively-focused, comprehensive institution providing undergraduate and graduate public higher education in the arts, sciences, business, nursing, and education, primarily to the people of West Georgia.

West Georgia offers a range of disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and professional programs at the baccalaureate level. It is also a major provider of graduate education at the master's and educational specialist's levels, and four doctoral programs are offered on West Georgia's campus. In addition to being accredited as an institute of higher education, the University earned national accreditation or recognition in most undergraduate and graduate fields of specialization.

The purpose of West Georgia is to provide opportunities for intellectual and personal development through quality teaching, scholarly inquiry, creative endeavor, and service for the public good. The University aspires to preeminence in providing educational excellence in a personal environment through an intellectually stimulating and supportive community for its students, faculty, and staff.

West Georgia is committed to the following areas of excellence: high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs in selected fields in the Arts, Sciences, Nursing, Business, and Education, that are grounded in a strong liberal arts curriculum, and that impart broad knowledge and foster critical understanding needed for intellectual growth, personal and social responsibility, cultural and global literacy, and life-long learning; emphasize disciplinary rigor; foster the development of effectiveness in communication, critical and independent thinking, problem solving, and the use of technology. A learning community dedicated to instructional excellence where close student-faculty interaction enhances both teaching and learning for a diverse and academically well-prepared student body. Educational opportunities for exceptional students through initiatives such as the development of an Honors College and, for extraordinary high school juniors and seniors, through The Advanced Academy of Georgia. Faculty research, scholarship, and creative endeavors which promote knowledge, enhance professional development, contribute to the quality of instruction, and provide significant opportunities for student involvement and field-based experience. A broad range of public service activities and proactive partnerships to promote more effective utilization of human and natural resources; to contribute to economic, social and technical development; and to enhance the quality of life within the University's scope of influence. Regional outreach through a collaborative network of external degree centers, course offerings at off-campus sites, and an extensive program of continuing education for personal and professional development. Student services increase opportunities for academic success and personal development and enhance the climate of campus life. Affirmation of the equal dignity of each person by valuing cultural, ethnic, racial, and gender diversity in students, faculty, and staff. A collegial environment in the decision-making processes and supporting practices that embody the ideals of an open, democratic society.