The Provost is the chief academic officer of the University and has responsibility for the University's academic and budgetary affairs. The Provost collaborates with the President in setting overall academic priorities for the University and allocates funds to carry these priorities forward.

By far, the most important duty of the Provost is the maintenance of the academic standards of the University. This is largely accomplished through their leadership in establishing the quality of faculty appointments and promotions.

The Provst is also responsible to the President for the formulation and implementation of educational policy, acting through the DEans and Associate Provosts where appropriate. The Provost also makes the appointments for Department Chairs, Department Heads and Deans.