University College of the North (UCN) is a premier institution committed to cultural diversity and Indigenous realities in Northern Manitoba. With a strong focus on community and northern development, UCN provides a wide range of post-secondary education programs. UCN's mission is to serve Northern communities and people through education, training, teaching, learning, and research, while respecting diverse Indigenous and Northern values.

Guided by the Seven Sacred Teachings, UCN is dedicated to building better futures for a stronger North. UCN has strategic directions that prioritize student success by recruiting more students, providing access to post-secondary opportunities, and offering relevant and flexible programming for good job prospects. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action, UCN's curriculum, systems, and processes support and reflect the strengths of Indigenous peoples in the north.

UCN also engages with communities and industries to foster economic development and participation in the digital economy. UCN upholds a code of ethics that emphasizes justice, respect, generosity, excellence and education, honesty and integrity, privacy, and stewardship. With a commitment to responsible administration, UCN ensures quality, effectiveness, and efficiency in all its endeavors.

As per the University College of the North Act, UCN holds governance as a vital aspect of its operations