This document contains the 2000-2005 statewide master plan for public higher education in Tennessee developed from a review of literature; reports; interviews with legislators, government officials, business and industry representatives; and analysis of data from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. The master plan outlines the goals and general objectives that respond to the postsecondary education needs of Tennessee and its citizens. It should be viewed as a continually developing guide that reflects the commitment of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission to equity, excellence, accessibility, and accountability. The report is based on several assumptions about the future of higher education in Tennessee, including the assumption that there will be no radical changes in the governance structure of higher education. The plan contains these goals, with related objectives: (1) elevate the educational attainment levels of Tennesseans; (2) clarify all institutional missions and present programs, services, and resources aligned to support the mission; (3) strive to be among the national leaders in the development and assessment of quality instructional programs based on student outcomes; (4) strive to be recognized as a national leader for quality research and public service; (5) strive for a sustained level of funding that will allow Tennessee citizens to reach their educational objectives (6) assure that public higher education will play a major role in the economic development of Tennessee; (7) implement an efficient, high quality information system; (8) offer relevant educational programs in partnership with business, government, and other educational agencies to address economic, intellectual, and social problems; and (9) communicate the values, strengths, and needs of higher education to the public and the branches of state government. (SLD)