The Campus Physical Development Framework is a forward-thinking vision guiding the future of campus development. Rooted in innovation, responsible planning, and collaboration, it envisions a vibrant, connected environment where everyone can thrive. Aligned with the university’s Impact 2030 strategy, this framework reflects the university’s commitment to creating a welcoming, accessible environment that supports its mission of education, discovery, health care, and service. From expanded housing and world-class facilities to enhanced green spaces and transportation, this roadmap paves the way for the University of Utah’s future.
University Goals
Become a
Top-10
public institution with unsurpassed societal impact
Increase student enrollment to
40,000+
Achieve
80%
graduation rate
Attain
90%
job placement rate
Reach
$1B
in research funding
Prepare for the
2034
Winter Olympics
Create
College Town Magic through new student housing and gathering spaces
Serve
3.5M
Utahns
Guiding Principles
Inspire. Innovate. Serve.
The Campus Physical Development Framework is guided by core principles that reflect the university community's aspirations for a thriving, connected future.
Best in Class Student Experience
- Create an enriching, welcoming, and safe campus environment to enhance learning.
- Provide the infrastructure and facilities that promote a “complete community” and vibrant campus living.
Exceptional Patient Experience
- Ensure convenient access to hospital and clinic facilities.
- Create a beautiful, safe, and healing physical environment that caters to both patients and families.
Access and Convenience
- Design for universal, equitable, multi-modal, and convenient access to campus spaces and facilities.
- Enhance campus safety, connectivity, and sustainability, reducing the impact of vehicular traffic through the campus.
- Create a pronounced sense of arrival to campus.
Highest and Best Use of Land
- Recognize that university-owned land is a valuable and finite resource. Maximize the potential of this land to advance the university's mission and values.
- Ensure new facilities are located to maximize the use of campus space while preserving the ability to adapt and grow in the future.
- Minimize use of campus land for low intensity uses like surface parking.
Stewardship of Campus Environment and Ecology
- Embrace and enhance the campus' foothills setting, environmental systems, and open space infrastructure.
- Preserve and celebrate the campus' history and culture.
Economic Opportunities and Resilience
- Consider all aspects of campus programs and services to determine how each supports the projected growth.
- Ensure appropriate balance between economic opportunity and sustainable growth while leveraging private equity for future campus growth.
Alignment with Impact 2030 Strategy
- Ensure best practices in campus design while aligning strategic growth with a 10-year plan for campus facility needs.
Employer of Choice for Faculty and Staff
- Cultivate a supportive and dynamic work environment that attracts and retains top faculty and staff, ensuring the University of Utah remains a destination for talent, innovation, and career growth.
