Dixie State College of Utah

Mission Statement

(June 10, 2005)

Dixie State College of Utah (DSC) strives to help students to define, shape and achieve educational and life goals.  It is dedicated to providing personalized and excellent teaching in a learning environment where all students can become passionate about their individual educational endeavors.

DSC is a publicly supported institution—authorized by the Utah State Board of Regents—with two interdependent tiers.  DSC offers associate degrees and certificate programs that meet the needs of students, the community and the state.  The College also offers baccalaureate programs in high demand areas and in core or foundational areas consistent with four-year colleges.  Dixie State College enhances its campus climate by promoting cultural and demographic diversity, and by inviting students to participate in its open-door, post-secondary educational programs.

DSC is committed to quality general education and student success:

DSC is committed to open enrollment and developing student learning capabilities.   Lower-division courses are primarily open admission, while students must meet prerequisites for upper-division courses and programs.

Students will develop the skills and knowledge needed for the next phases in their lives, whether productive employment that contributes to society and economically sustains the student, further education at a transfer or graduate institution, or some other unique and personal aspiration.  They will prepare to be life-long learners. 

Graduates will be able to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve problems.  Through exposure to the breadth of human knowledge and experience, they will investigate and enhance their world views to achieve a global perspective.  They will make responsible and meaningful contributions to society, in part through service to others.  Graduates will become citizen-scholars. 

DSC is a community college:

DSC has an ongoing commitment to its community college role, which includes transfer education, career and technical education, customized training for employers, developmental education, and strong student services.

DSC also contributes to the quality of life and economic development of the community and the state. Local citizens and alumni will enjoy educational, economic, cultural, and recreational opportunities provided by DSC that enhance the community’s quality of life.  They will feel ownership and pride in the College, sustaining it through donations and promoting it among their associations.

DSC is a state college:

DSC offers bachelor’s degree programs in selected high demand areas and in core or foundational areas consistent with its mission as a four-year institution.  It also partners with other institutions in the Utah System of Higher Education in ensuring that quality graduate programs are available to Washington County residents. 

DSC is committed to accountability and creativity in delivering quality higher educational opportunities within its service area.  The College will be a cooperative and conscientious partner with other public and higher education institutions, responsibly using public funds to meet the state’s needs.

Dixie State College’s goals and values are:

Academic Rigor in a Challenging, Supportive Learning Environment 

DSC focuses on quality teaching and learning, and will be resolute in maintaining high academic standards and rigorous expectations for faculty and students.  DSC will also nurture student confidence, retention and success by attracting and retaining dedicated employees, and by maintaining small classes, academic freedom and quality service.

Access and Opportunity

DSC will invite members of the community with varying preparation for higher education, reaching out to under-represented populations, and meeting individuals’ needs with offerings ranging from developmental education to an honors program.

Diversity

DSC will promote diversity among its employees and student body to enrich the teaching and learning environment.  DSC will provide diverse educational, economic, cultural, and recreational opportunities.

Workforce and Economic Development

DSC will cooperate with the local community, region, and state to identify and meet the demands of business and industry.  The college will provide leadership and support to economic development.

Sound Management and Responsible Stewardship

DSC will be accountable in its stewardship over public resources and students’ trust, using state, tuition, and donor resources to promote the College’s mission.