The following is a general format that can be used when developing a mission statement:  

“The mission of (name of your program) is to (your primary purpose) by providing (your primary functions or activities) to (your stakeholders).” (Additional clarifying statements)

Note that the order in which the statements are made may vary from this format, but the content should be easily identified.

Examples of program mission statements:

Poor: The mission of Hypothetical Art is to provide a broad art education.

The statement is very vague and does not distinguish this particular program from other engineering programs. It lacks information about the primary functions of the program and does not identify the stakeholders. Additionally, there is no indication that the program’s mission is aligned with the school and Institute missions.

Better: The mission of Hypothetical art is to educate students coming from diverse backgrounds in the principles of Hypothetical Art that will prepare them for both current and future professional challenges in Hypothetical Art.

This statement is better because it identifies the stakeholders as well as a primary function of the program. However, it still is not a distinctive statement.

Best: The mission of Hypothetical Art bachelor’s degree program is to educate (through courses and an internship) students coming from diverse backgrounds in the fundamental skills, knowledge, and practice of Hypothetical Art in order to (1) prepare them for Hypothetical Art careers and (2) prepare them for continuing for an advanced degrees in Hypothetical Art or related disciplines. The program will promote a commitment to continued creativity and technical expertise among it graduates and foster a spirit of innovation. It will also promote an environment that is inclusive and diverse.

This is a very effective mission statement. The mission of the program is very clearly defined.