THE VISION

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University aspires to be the premier interdisciplinary-centered university in America that builds on its comparative advantages in engineering, technology, and business; a strong civil rights legacy; and status as an 1890 land-grant institution. The challenges of preparing our students to meet the complex needs of the global society necessitate that these exemplary and relevant educational experiences are inherently global in nature and interdisciplinary in focus. The commitment to excellence and the unique NCA&TSU legacy of nurturing the individual student remain strong.

The University’s evolution toward interdisciplinary responds to societal and intellectual issues that require new solutions. Cross-functional teams with expertise from a variety of disciplines and perspectives are the best hope for the solution of complex modern challenges. As new problem-solving methods are needed, new disciplines are created at the intersection of old ones. Students are enthusiastic about courses that link learning to contemporary issues. An interdisciplinary education provides students with not only essential knowledge, but also connections across the disciplines, and finally, the ability to apply knowledge to life beyond the campus.

Interdisciplinary studies build upon disciplinary excellence while inspiring new possibilities beyond the strengths of traditional fields of study. This model provides a focus for curriculum innovation, fosters communication across disciplines, and promotes partnerships with public and private entities. This university creates a learning environment in which opportunities to build solutions are based on expertise in more than one discipline. Teaching focuses more on the ability to organize, assess, apply, and create interdisciplinary knowledge rather than the transmission of existing knowledge to students.

The teaching and learning process involves not only a commitment to knowledge and research, but also appreciates the influences of diverse thoughts, values, processes, resources, and structures as it seeks to organize and plan lifelong learning experiences. High expectations are supported by an infrastructure that facilitates the opportunity for constituents within the University to achieve and excel individually and collectively. Opportunities for learning are enhanced by varied methods of instruction, 24-hour availability, and through partnerships that are collaborative and cooperative.

To be productive citizens of the 21st century, our students must be globally informed. Thus, current efforts to globalize the curriculum will continue. In addition, students will have the opportunity to enhance their undergraduate education by taking part in overseas study, internships, or service learning experiences. Some may even earn a certificate in international studies. Likewise, international partnerships enhance interdisciplinary efforts and provide new opportunities for faculty and students to participate in and contribute to global change. The University exists for a society that is committed to research, knowledge and service to humankind. The physical space for learning is not to be limited to a specific site, but deliverable in a variety of locations with a multiplicity of available resources. 

The interdisciplinary-centered university envisions its role to serve the needs of individuals and groups who seek continuous opportunities for intellectual stimulation and growth. Utilizing the traditional disciplines and technological resources, this University fosters excellence in communication, enhances critical thinking, conducts research, and transmits new knowledge to a community that seeks to improve the quality of life for all in the 21st century.

To realize the promise of the interdisciplinary-centered university, North Carolina A&T must initiate and nurture strategic partnerships, while concurrently enhancing and diversifying its resource base.