Washington University's educational mission is the promotion of learning — learning by students and by faculty.  Teaching, or the transmission of knowledge, is central to our mission, as is research, or the creation of new knowledge.  The faculty, composed of scholars, scientists, artists, and members of the learned professions, serves society by teaching; by adding to the store of human art, understanding, and wisdom; and by providing direct services, such as health care.

Central to our mission are our goals, which are to foster excellence in our teaching, research, scholarship, and service; to prepare students with the attitudes, skills, and habits of lifelong learning and with leadership skills, enabling them to be useful members of a global society; and to be an exemplary institution in our home community of St.  Louis, as well as in the nation and in the world.