"We want to get promoted, not by the play-offs, but by getting ourselves into that top two.
"I'm pretty sure everyone knows what we want, it's been our objective for a number of years."
Skuse, who was voted City's player of the year last season, is set to play an important part in new manager Steve Coppell's plans.
What do you think is a serious expectation for this season? Personally I'd be happy with a top 10finish
Scrumpy
And he is ready for the challenges ahead: "We know what we have to improve on from last year. There's also three good sides who have come down and big clubs have been promoted.
"It's not going to be easy."
City begin a pre-season tour in Sweden against Gothenburg on 13 July but, in the meantime, Coppell is getting to know the players he inherited from former boss Gary Johnson.
"He's a very nice guy," added Skuse. "He hasn't got too involved with training so far. He's been watching and getting to know the lads.
"It's hard for us to judge him, too. He's watched the sessions and taken in what we do and I'm sure he'll get more involved as time goes on."
Under Johnson, City reached the Championship play-off final in 2008, where they were beaten 1-0 by Hull City. The Ashton Gate club have finished in 10th spot for the last two seasons.
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport