http://www.ndu.edu/info/mission.cfmNational Defense UniversityThe pre-eminent institution for education, research, and outreach in national and international security.Prepare military and civilian leaders from the United States and other countries to evaluate national and international security challenges through multi-disciplinary educational and research programs, professional exchanges, and outreach.Academic FreedomAn educational and research climate that fosters and protects free expression, rigorous analysis, and open intellectual exchange.IntegrityAn organizational culture based on openness, honesty, trust, and ethical conduct.ExcellenceA determined commitment to scholarship, knowledge development, institutional agility, innovation, and creativity.CommunityThe embrace of diverse peoples, ideas, and cultures in a spirit of lifelong professional cooperation and collaboration.Growth and DevelopmentAn environment that fosters individual intellectual and physical well being. 1Professional Military EducationAchieve the highest standard of joint Professional Military Education. 2Leadership DevelopmentDevelop strategic knowledge and critical thinking, promote cross-cultural understanding, and create operational awareness to prepare graduates to exercise strong leadership. 3Unit of EffortPromote unity of effort across and beyond the U.S. Government through national security education programs, research, activities, and organizations that anticipate and address complex security challenges. 4Faculty, Staff, Technology, and FacilitiesInvest in faculty, staff, technology, and facilities to promote excellence in educational programs, research, exchanges, and outreach.5National and International RelationshipsCultivate national and international relationships that contribute to the University’s vision and mission.6Life-Long Learning CommunitiesBuild life-long learning communities that sustain and renew the capabilities of graduates over the course of their professional careers.