The mission of the State University of New York Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome (SUNYIT) is to offer undergraduate studies in professional, technical, and selected liberal arts fields, as well as graduate studies in selected academic disciplines; to encourage participation in educationally oriented community and public service; and to support basic and applied research appropriate to its curricula.

SUNYIT values and encourages academic and intellectual achievement of the highest quality, broad access to persons motivated to pursue college preparation and experience, the breadth and depth provided by a sound and comprehensive liberal arts education and the technical competencies inherent to the applied disciplines. SUNYIT is committed to the integration of these elements in a coherent program of higher learning.

In addition, SUNYIT strives to provide a challenging, culturally diverse, and supportive educational environment that fosters and encourages active student participation in residential life and student organizations, athletics and recreation, and cultural and social events.