The Division of Academic Affairs, Research and Student Success serves as the primary liaison for the University of Tennessee System to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, Tennessee Department of Education, Tennessee Board of Regents, Tennessee Independent Colleges & Universities Association, and the Southern Regional Education Board’s Academic Common Market.

The office also oversees several grants, sponsors system-wide academic and professional development programs, and works with each of the University of Tennessee campuses in Knoxville, Chattanooga, MartinMemphis and Pulaski to develop and evaluate policies for faculty and students, as well as develop proposals for new and modified academic programs.