Alabama A&M earns new Carnegie classification for research

NORMAL — Alabama A&M University has earned recognition as a Research College and University (RCU) in the newly redesigned Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education. This milestone achievement reflects the university’s commitment to advancing research through the innovative work of its faculty and students.

The Carnegie Classifications, established as the leading framework for categorizing accredited, degree-granting institutions in the U.S., have been redesigned by the American Council on Education to better acknowledge the diversity and depth of research across higher education institutions.

“The 2025 Carnegie Classification’s Research and University aims to highlight research activity at institutions that have historically been overlooked due to lower numbers of doctoral graduates,” said Dr. Majed Dweik, Vice President of Research & Economic Development. “By setting a research expenditure threshold of at least $2.5 million annually, this classification ensures that universities like Alabama A&M receive well-deserved recognition for their contributions to research and development.”

The 2025 framework includes three key research designations: Research 1 (R1) for institutions with very high research expenditures and substantial doctoral production, Research 2 (R2) for institutions with high research activity, and Research Colleges and Universities (RCU) for institutions demonstrating research engagement at varying levels.

AAMU faculty and leadership are optimistic that this designation will attract top-tier students and researchers while enhancing the University’s global research reputation.

The university is actively pursuing the R2 designation, with current research expenditures for 2024 reaching $16.248 million – exceeding the R2 research expenditure threshold by $11.248 million.

“This new distinction spotlights our university’s emphasis on impact and discovery through diverse research activity,” said President Daniel K. Wims. “Thanks to the ongoing work of our faculty and staff to expand research across the institution, we are well-positioned in our efforts to reach R2 classification in the near future.”

Alabama A&M University has a longstanding tradition of research excellence spanning multiple disciplines:

• Agriculture and Natural Sciences: Faculty researchers are exploring the use of industrial hemp for medicinal and commercial applications, improving animal health, advancing smart and precision agriculture, and climate change mitigation.
  “Alabama A&M University’s designation as a Carnegie Research University is a well-earned milestone, thanks to the dedication of our administrators, faculty, staff, and students” said Dr. Lloyd Walker, 1890 Research Director and Dean of the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences (CALNS). “Our College remains a leader in STEM research and Ph.D. production, driving efforts to increase grant funding and doctoral graduation rates. As the nucleus of these advancements, CALNS is committed to achieving Carnegie R1 status, a goal we are confident is within reach.”
• Engineering and Computer Science: Researchers are driving advancements in quantum computing, magnetics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, the integrated circuit microelectronics/semiconductor design, fabrication and testing (Chips), space propulsion and engineering, nuclear engineering thermal sciences, and material science and nanotechnology, including energy harvesting, and computational sciences.
  “The College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences (CETPS) has been a STEM education leader in providing robust educational settings that allow motivated and dedicated students the opportunity to excel in the sciences, engineering disciplines, and related fields,” said Dean Zhengtao Deng. “Being a recognized Research College and University based on the Carnegie Research Classifications enhances our opportunities to secure more research funding and attract top talent to the STEM field.”
• Education and Healthcare: Researchers are addressing critical societal challenges through projects such as the Alabama Recruit and Retain Minority Teacher Program, the Let Us Build Bridges Study Abroad Project in Zambia, and the $3.6 million Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program.
  “These diverse research projects position the College of Education, Humanities and Behavioral Sciences as a leader in education, healthcare, and global partnerships,” said Dr. Peter Eley, dean of the College of Education, Humanities and Behavioral Sciences.
• Business and Public Affairs: Researchers are conducting impactful societal research on economic mobility, gender equality, STEM education participation, and much more.
  “Our dedication to impactful scholarship, aligned with the rigorous standards of AACSB accreditation, is evident in our faculty’s increasing number of peer-reviewed publications and high citation counts. This designation, coupled with our AACSB accreditation, elevates our institution’s profile and empowers our students and faculty to contribute meaningfully to local and regional economic development,” said Dr. Timothy Mantz, Dean of the College of Business and Public Affairs.