The university supports multi-dimensional excellence across the full breadth of its work: teaching and learning, research and creative activity, and outreach and public engagement.  Northern Kentucky University fosters a community that values openness, inclusion and respect.  The university is committed to intellectual and creative freedom and to the open expression of ideas in ways that support scholarship and advance the learning process.  The university embraces its regional stewardship role as reflected in its significant contribution to the intellectual, social, economic, cultural and civic vitality of the region and the commonwealth.

Northern Kentucky University achieves its mission through outstanding faculty, state-of-the-art programs and community partnerships.  The university prides itself on its learner focus, entrepreneurial spirit, global perspective, innovative programs, small classes, technology-enhanced academic programs, co-curricular learning opportunities, and emphasis on active learning, including student research, internships, co-op programs and service learning.