University of Michigan Flint

University of Michigan Flint - Dean's Office

Mission Statement

An educated citizenry is the foundation of a democratic society. The College of Arts and Sciences stands at the heart of a University of Michigan-Flint education, offering general education and degree programs in the liberal and fine arts, the natural and social sciences, and selected applied fields. Graduate degree programs are designed to meet the needs of the population in our urban and regional service area. The work of the college requires an empowered faculty dedicated to the education of students and the advancement of knowledge, students who actively seek to learn, and a supportive community.

The mission for the College of Arts and Sciences is to create and sustain a community of lifelong learners in an environment that emphasizes literacy, critical thinking, and humanistic and scientific inquiry.

The College will:

Foster excellence in teaching and learning
Engage students in learning partnerships with faculty
Develop mastery of disciplines and confidence in their application for a future of meaningful and productive work
Support students and faculty in traditional and applied research and creative endeavors
Engage faculty and students in professionally related service to the university and society
Promote and defend academic freedom, diversity, equality and justice

The University of Michigan-Flint 2009-2010 Catalog, page 77.

A Message from Dean Trela on the Value of a Liberal Arts Education

True education is about learning, and the application of knowledge to unique, varying circumstances. There is an important distinction between education and learning, and training. The former prepares you for all that life throws at you. Training, on the other hand, gives you a limited number of tools that allow you to perform specific and often repetitive tasks. There is value in both, but in a liberal arts education learning takes precedence over training.

For example a solid background in chemistry or biology provides the education and analytical ability needed to prepare doctors or research scientists. A background in the social sciences can prepare you for a career in law. Degrees in English, history, engineering or psychology give you critical, analytical, writing and thinking abilities that will support and sustain you through the challenges that arise in the workplace, in your personal life, and in your community life.

Through general education, major concentrations and also minors, the College of Arts and Sciences provides true education to all students willing to partner with their teachers and take an active role in their own learning, evolution as people, and growth as citizens in a democratic society.

~ Dr. D. J. Trela