University of Wisconsin-Stout, as a special mission institution, serves a unique role in the University of Wisconsin System. UW-Stout is characterized by a distinctive array of programs leading to professional careers focused on the needs of society. These programs are presented through an approach to learning which involves combining theory, practice and experimentation. Extending this special mission into the future requires that instruction, research and public service programs be adapted and modified as the needs of society change.

  • The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs leading to professional careers in industry, commerce, education and human services through the study of technology, applied mathematics and science, art, business, industrial management, human behavior, family and consumer sciences, and manufacturing-related engineering and technologies.

  • The university integrates the humanities; arts; and natural, physical and social sciences into its undergraduate programs. Experiences in these areas provide a foundation for the major field of study, promote continuing personal and professional growth, and prepare the student to deal constructively with issues and opportunities of the future. The university places special emphasis upon student development.

  • The university's programs center on human development and interpersonal relationships, efficient and effective practices in industry, commerce, education and human services and the relationships of individuals to their environment and to society.

  • The university develops new educational strategies, provides opportunities to learn through involvement and experimentation, and creates a climate of inquiry. The university experiments with new instructional methods in the interest of improving the learning process.

  • The university expects scholarly activity including research, scholarship, development and creative endeavor that supports its programs at the baccalaureate level, its select graduate programs and its select mission.

  • The university, through outreach and public service, addresses the needs of society and contributes to the welfare of the state and to its economic and technological development and cooperates with University of Wisconsin-Extension.

  • The university cooperates with the other University of Wisconsin institutions; the Wisconsin Technical College System, and other state and national agencies; and participates in statewide, national, and international programs.
Read more about UW-Stout's Strategic Plan and Mission Statement.

System Mission

Each institution of the University of Wisconsin System shares in the encompassing System Mission established by the Board of Regents.

In addition, the Regents have given a more specific Core Mission to the group of 11 institutions designated as the University Cluster, and a differentiated Select Mission for each institution.