The University of Louisville shall be a premier, nationally recognized metropolitan research university with a commitment to the liberal arts and sciences and to the intellectual, cultural, and economic development of our diverse communities and citizens through the pursuit of excellence in five interrelated strategic areas: (1) Educational Experience, (2) Research, Creative, and Scholarly Activity, (3) Accessibility, Diversity, Equity, and Communication, (4) Partnerships and Collaborations, and (5) Institutional Effectiveness of Programs and Services.

The University of Louisville is a state supported research university located in Kentucky's largest metropolitan area. It was a municipally supported public institution for many decades prior to joining the university system in 1970. The University has three campuses. The 287-acre Belknap Campus is three miles from downtown Louisville and houses seven of the university's 11 colleges and schools. The Health Sciences Center is situated in downtown Louisville's medical complex and houses the university's health related programs and the University of Louisville Hospital. On the 243-acre Shelby Campus located in eastern Jefferson County is the National Crime Prevention Institute.

Louisville is a progressive community of nearly 1 million people with a robust economy, a vibrant arts scene, a nationally ranked public school system and a rich history infused with Southern hospitality.

Situated on the banks of the Ohio River, America’s 17th largest city boasts a cost of living that is substantially lower than the national average, with a broad range of affordable housing options from high-rise apartments and historic Victorian homes to suburban communities and rural farms.