Academic Affairs Academic Plan

2025-2028 Academic Plan

Purpose and Background

Academic Planning is a strategic framework for the Division of Academic Affairs that is guided by the Ferris State University mission, vision, values, and strategic plan. Academic Planning clarifies the academic goals of the University and charts a path for innovation, growth, and the future. 

In September 2023, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) charged the Academic Planning Steering Committee (APSC) with the development of an Academic Plan. Through a future-looking, inclusive engagement process, the APSC served to guide the process and draft a concise Academic Plan that includes 1) an academic mission statement, 2) broad goals, and 3) related initiatives. The APSC utilized the definitions of key pillars from the University's 2024-2027 Strategic Plan and identified mapping to the pillars within the initiatives. 

In December 2024, the APSC recommended the 2025-2028 Academic Plan draft to the Provost and VPAA for review, navigation with the approval processes, and implementation of the Academic Plan. Consistent with these steps, APSC further recommended development of a work plan and action steps to guide implementation of the Academic Plan by the end of Spring 2025.

In January 2025, the Provost and VPAA accepted the 2025-2028 Academic Plan Draft, with minor edits, and the recommendation to develop action steps to guide implementation. The identification of action steps were ongoing throughout Spring 2025 to support implementation for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Academic affairs mission statement

In support of the Ferris State University mission, vision, and values, the Division of Academic Affairs is committed to providing equitable student-centered education. As a division, we achieve this by promoting practical learning through responsive educational opportunities, facilitating a community of belonging, empowering academic success and personal growth, and preparing students for diverse career opportunities that meet the needs of Michigan. 

Goal Statements

• Promoting practical learning through responsive educational opportunities
• Facilitating a community of belonging
• Empowering academic and personal growth
• Preparing students for diverse career opportunities

Strategic Initiatives