Northern State University's mission, vision and values provide the foundation for Northern Forward and guide the university's commitment to student success, academic excellence and community engagement.

Our Mission

Rooted in community and academic excellence, Northern State University prepares students for leadership and lifelong success. Northern delivers student-centered education and hands-on experiences that cultivate health and human connection, civic and cultural vitality, and economic growth.

Northern's mission is grounded in its statutory mission under South Dakota law (SDCL § 13-59-1) and the Board of Regents' mission policy for Northern State University (Policy 1.2.3).

Our Vision

Northern is where students are known, challenged, supported, and prepared for lives of purpose and impact.

Our Values

Northern State University's students, faculty, and staff are committed to the following values:
 

Community: Building a culture of inclusion, belonging, and collegiality that respects diversity in knowledge, culture, and worldview.
 

Discovery: Pursuing rigor and excellence in education, inquiry, and engagement for the benefit of our students, state, and region.
 

Integrity: Adhering to the highest standards of honesty, fairness, and transparency, with a commitment to responsible stewardship of resources.