Underlying all courses of study is a belief that liberal education and professional preparation constitute complementary rather than conflicting goals. The undergraduate curriculum includes a specialization in at least one academic discipline or professional program and fulfillment of General Education requirements. The General Education program provides a broad based, international and multicultural foundation of study supported by analytical and communication skills. A small number of graduate programs are important in addressing regional needs including support of school systems and sustaining economic development. Graduate students are also an intellectual stimulus for the departments in which they are located and generally enhance the college's academic atmosphere.
Faculty recognize that research and creative activities are essential to their growth as teachers.
Faculty research is also valuable for students in that they observe, and sometimes participate in, scholarly activity at a professional level. Moreover, college and community service are considered reflections of engaged scholarship. Consistent with this role, it provides a wealth of cultural, social and service activities to the citizens of the North Country. Its faculty offer technical assistance on issues ranging from economic planning to environmental protection. Admission to all academic programs is selective and sometimes highly competitive for those programs with the greatest student demand.