ASU Earns Prestigious Research College Status: What It Means for Students and Innovation

On April 24, 2025, Alabama State University (ASU) earned a special distinction as a Research College and University (RCU) from the Carnegie Classification of Higher Education Institutions. This places ASU among just 216 institutions across the nation recognized for their significant research contributions.

The Carnegie Foundation has revamped its classification system to better reflect the diverse research efforts of U.S. colleges and universities. This new methodology highlights institutions that may not have been recognized before but are making meaningful impacts in research.

Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., ASU’s president, expressed pride in this achievement. He emphasized that this classification aligns with ASU’s goal of gaining global recognition through excellence in teaching, research, and community service. He noted, “Research is crucial to addressing the challenges facing our nation and world.” This commitment to exploration and innovation not only benefits the scholars at ASU but also enriches the wider community.

The RCU designation focuses on colleges and universities that invest heavily in research, even if they don’t offer many doctoral programs. To achieve this status, an institution must spend over $2.5 million annually on research activities. ASU stands out with over $51.7 million in federal funding across 29 projects, showcasing the dedication of its talented faculty and student-scholars.

ASU also holds two additional classifications from Carnegie: a Special Focus designation in Arts and Sciences, and the Higher Access, Medium Earnings classification, which means it sits within the top 43% of U.S. colleges in terms of accessibility and student earnings after graduation.

Dr. Tanjula Petty, ASU’s Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness, emphasized the significance of these classifications. She stated that they not only affirm ASU’s commitment to impactful research and education but also align with the university’s strategic plan, Focus 2030. This plan aims to address the rapidly changing challenges in higher education while ensuring that students receive transformative academic experiences.

The recognition of ASU as an RCU reflects a growing trend in higher education to acknowledge research contributions from a more diverse range of institutions. As the focus on research expands, institutions like ASU play a vital role in driving innovation and addressing critical societal issues.

In conclusion, ASU’s achievement not only highlights its commitment to research and education but also sets a precedent in reshaping how institutions are recognized for their contributions to society. For more information on the Carnegie Classification, visit [Carnegie Classification](https://carnegieclassifications.iu.edu/).

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