The recently updated UC Davis Philosophy of Purpose describes the mission of the campus. It connects the modern campus with its land-grant origins. The three elements are teaching, research, and service to society. The Davis campus of the University of California has a long tradition of special attention to undergraduate education. The elements of the mission are strengthened by the inclusion of programs of graduate education and professional education in veterinary medicine, medicine, law, and management.

The general descriptions in the Philosophy of Purpose take a more concrete form in the Academic Plan. Finalized in 2001, it describes how the principles of the Philosophy of Purpose will be applied in the years 2000-2006 as the campus goes through another phase of major growth. The Academic Plan is the product of several years of discussions, proposals, and priority setting, which included extensive collaboration between the faculty and administration. It describes detailed plans for the growth and priorities in each of the colleges.