Vision, Mission, Goals & Objectives

Vision:
We envision an education, research, training, and technology transfer program designed to develop a skilled and educated workforce that is highly competitive in a global market. The academic research and training program serves as an important resource of traffic and transportation engineers, planners, systems analyst, policy makers, business and industry leaders for local, state, and federal governments, community organizations and agencies, and consulting companies in the nation.

Mission:
In keeping with the traditional and urban mission of Texas Southern University, the Division of Transportation Studies in the School of Technology will provide education that builds on the latest data, systems and technologies in transportation. In preparing the next generation of transportation professionals, particular attention will be given to attracting and retaining socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who have not been well-represented in higher level educational programs and among transportation professionals in the past. There is a strong commitment to partnership development and a climate wherein various racial/ethnic and culturally diverse groups can develop their full potential.

Goals:
The primary goal of the academic program is to educate transportation planners, engineers and managers who are able to plan, functionally design and operate facilities and systems which satisfy the demand for both passenger and freight transportation services. To fulfill both the traditional and urban mission of Texas Southern University, the Transportation Studies Department has established strategic planning initiatives to fulfill both short- and long-term needs. The Transportation Studies Department shall:

• Improve and expand transportation education, training and research.
• Advance technology transfer and expertise.
• Foster sound linkages between the department, other University units, and the public and the private transportation sectors.
• Participate in local, state and federal research and training initiatives.

Objectives:
The principal objectives of graduate study in transportation are:

1. to provide students with the professional knowledge and skills needed to compete successfully in a global economy
2. to enhance students’ abilities to develop creative solutions to complex problems in the context of socioeconomic and environment considerations; and
3. to develop innovative ways to address transportation needs and problems.

The central focus of the academic program is to identify and respond to the training needs of the transportation industry; provide an environment which enables students to develop maximum potential; encourage visionary and creative thinking; provide varied internships and research opportunities which acquaint students with human knowledge and actual work experiences; offer transportation education and training programs directed toward career development in cooperation with business, industry, labor, and public service agencies; and identify and meet professional and in service training needs through specialized short-courses, conferences, symposia, and/or seminars.