Established in 1973, the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education has become a key benchmark for assessing the research impact and academic mission of institutions.
Colleges and Universities with research activity can achieve one of three levels. Research Activity Levels
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Research 1: Very High Spending and Doctorate Production
On average in a single year, these institutions spend at least $50 million on research and development and produce at least 70 research doctorates.
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Research 2: High Spending and Doctorate Production
On average in a single year, these institutions spend at least $5 million on research and development and produce at least 20 research doctorates.
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Research College and University
On average in a single year, these institutions spend at least $2.5 million on research and development. Institutions that are in the R1 or R2 categories are not included.