Wayne State University has once again been classified by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as an institution with “very high research activity,” the highest possible category. The classification is the first following a new, more transparent methodology for the R1 designation announced by the American Council on Education and Carnegie Foundation to modernize the framework to more accurately describe the multifaceted nature of modern colleges and universities. Wayne State has retained this prestigious status for more than 30 years and also boasts Carnegie’s highest classification for community engagement. Only two Michigan institutions hold both classifications, a combination that underscores Wayne State’s strength and leadership in both research and in serving its community.
The Carnegie R1 designation is synonymous with academic excellence and research innovation and impact. With an update to the classification criteria, less than 200 U.S. institutions currently hold this elite designation. The updated classification, which is confirmed every three years, was made following an in-depth review of research expenditures and the number of doctoral degrees awarded between 2021-23.
“From pioneering the world’s first successful open-heart surgery to launching the nation’s first comprehensive electric-drive vehicle engineering program, Wayne State has long been at the forefront of advancing research that saves lives, fuels economic growth and changes the world,” said Dr. Kimberly Andrews Espy, Wayne State University’s president. “As a premier urban R1 public university, we offer students an outstanding academic and research experience, with world-class faculty who provide education and training for the next generation of leaders.”
Supported by the Division of Research and Innovation, research is a key driver in each pillar of Wayne State’s Prosperity Agenda. Wayne State’s total research and development expenditures increased 3.6% from 2022, with a total of $250.9 million reported in 2023.
The National Science Foundation’s 2023 Higher Education Research and Development Survey ranked Wayne State 78th among public universities and 118th out of all U.S. colleges and universities.
Wayne State’s research spans the full range of disciplines and encourages a collaborative approach from scholars in the life and physical sciences, behavioral and social sciences, and the arts and humanities. This ‘team science’ approach leverages scholars’ talents and resources to address critical societal problems. Many of Wayne State’s major research projects focus on complex issues – including health challenges, the responsible use of new and emerging technologies, and sustainability, to name a few. Under the leadership of Ezemenari Obasi, Ph.D., vice president for Research & Innovation, the university will announce key Grand Challenges – to focus collaborative efforts and further accelerate research at Wayne State this spring.
“Our continued research growth and renewed R1 classification are a testament to the high-quality work of our faculty and their relentless pursuit of knowledge,” said Obasi. “Wayne State has a rich history of innovation and impact, and as we continue to build upon our strengths and find new ways to work across disciplines, we can have an even bigger impact. Together, we’re ready to tackle the problems of today and tomorrow.”