Troy University Earns Carnegie Research University Designation: What It Means for Students and the Community

Troy University has just earned recognition as a Carnegie Research University. This new classification supports smaller institutions making significant research efforts. To be eligible, a university must spend an average of at least $2.5 million annually on research and development. Troy is among 218 colleges to receive this honor.

Dr. Kerry Palmer, senior vice chancellor of Academic Affairs at Troy, expressed pride in this achievement. He stated, “This status showcases our commitment to research and innovation.” The university has worked hard to secure funding for ambitious projects, placing itself alongside some of the nation’s leading research institutions.

Recently, the Carnegie Foundation revamped its classification system. This change came after noticing many universities adjusting their programs to achieve higher research categories. Through this overhaul, they created a new option—Carnegie Research University—allowing more schools to be recognized for their research contributions without changing their core missions.

Mushtaq Gunja, the executive director of the Carnegie Classification Systems, emphasized the benefits of the redesign: “We are encouraging institutions to focus on their strengths rather than conforming to rigid metrics.” This shift gives universities the flexibility to flourish in areas they excel.

While the criteria for higher designations, such as R-2 status, remain the same—requiring at least $5 million in research and a minimum of 20 doctorate awards—Troy’s leadership is eager to reach this next milestone.

In the current academic year, Troy has already secured over $42 million in grants. On September 8, 2023, the Alabama Commission on Higher Education recognized Troy as a doctoral institution. This has led to new programs, including a Ph.D. in Criminology and a specialization in Global Healthcare Leadership.

Moreover, the Center for Materials and Manufacturing Sciences opened as the first facility dedicated solely to research at Troy. Established with support from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, this center aims to advance studies on materials, particularly polymers and recycling. Since its inception, the NIST has awarded the center $9.4 million for various research initiatives.

Historically, the Carnegie Classification system began in 1970. It aimed to describe the diversity of U.S. higher education. Updated every three years, this framework reflects ongoing changes in academic institutions.

As Troy University embraces its role in research, it demonstrates a growing shift in how colleges can contribute to knowledge and innovation, proving that commitment and focus can lead to notable advancements in the academic landscape.

For more details on the Carnegie Classification, you can read about it on the Carnegie Foundation’s official site.

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