Strategic Plan for The University of Alabama, 2004-2014

Context for this Strategic Plan

This is the third major strategic planning cycle for The University of Alabama, following on strategic plans that were developed and implemented over the previous 20 years. This plan is based on an assessment of the current status of conditions in Alabama that suggest that the state has limited new resources in which to invest in higher education; the number of graduating seniors from Alabama high schools will remain relatively constant, and the number of high school graduates in surrounding states will be increasing. Additional revenues to enhance the University's ability to accomplish its mission will come through growth in enrollment of students to 28,000 over the next ten years, competitive tuition and fee increases, growth of research funding, effective management of the University's debt, and effective fund-raising. Enrollment growth will be possible by attracting additional students from surrounding states who seek a high quality education, and through the growth of high quality distance education courses that attract serious students from around the world.

The University of Alabama recognizes that it serves the interests of a complex base of stakeholders. The traditional 18 to 24 year old students who are seeking the experience of learning at a major university, and their parents, are major stakeholders, along with graduate students who will conduct scholarly work and research on the campus. Non-traditional students are important stakeholders, along with young people and adults who participate through the University's distance education programs. The University plays a vital role in meeting the needs of businesses, industry, health care, educational, communication, governmental, and legal institutions in the region through research, consultation, professional development and the preparation of graduates to provide service and leadership in these areas. The University's alumni and supporters across the country are vital stakeholders. Likewise, the government agencies, foundations, and corporations who support the university's educational, research, and scholarly activities are also important stakeholders. The faculty, staff, and retirees of the University each constitute another vital group of stakeholders, as well as the Tuscaloosa community that benefits economically and socially from the presence of a research university.