Integral to the university's philosophy is instilling in students an environmental consciousness that balances economic and social aspirations with the imperative for ecological sustainability. Service to Southwest Florida, including access to the university, is a public trust. The university is committed to forging partnerships and being responsive to its region. It strives to make available its resources, services, and educational offerings at times, places, in forms, and by methods that will meet the needs of all its constituents. Access means not only admittance to buildings and programs, but also entrance into the spirit of intellectual and cultural community that the university creates and nourishes.
Technology is a fundamental tool in achieving educational quality, efficiency, and distribution.
The university employs information technology in creative, experimental, and practical ways for delivery of instruction, for administrative and information management, and for student access and support. It requires and cultivates technological literacy in its students and employees. Connected knowing and collaborative learning are basic to being well educated. The university structures interdisciplinary learning experiences throughout the curriculum to endow students with the ability to think in whole systems and to understand the interrelation of knowledge across disciplines. Emphasis is placed on the development of teamwork skills through collaborative opportunities.