Virginia State University Achieves Prestigious Carnegie R2 Research Designation

VSU joins the elite company of 139 institutions and fewer than 15 HBCUs to qualify for R2 status.

Virginia State University is proud to announce its elevation to R2 status (Research 2: High Research Spending and Doctorate Production) in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. This designation recognizes the University’s significant growth in research and graduate education, placing VSU among a select group of universities nationwide classified as “Doctoral/Professional Universities with High Research Activity.” Currently, there are fewer than 15 HBCUs with this designation.

“This is a significant milestone for Virginia State University,” said Dr. Omar Faison, Vice Provost for Research & Economic Development. “Achieving R2 status signals to federal agencies, industry partners, and prospective students that VSU is a leader in innovation, discovery, and advanced scholarship.”

Currently, only 139 institutions are classified as R2 by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, underlining its significance and prestige. Achieving this status reflects VSU’s continued investment in research infrastructure, faculty scholarship, external grant funding, and the expansion of doctoral programs.

“This designation is a testament to the outstanding work of our faculty to secure competitive research funding and provide greater opportunities for our students to engage in groundbreaking and impactful work,” said Dr. Tia Minnis, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs.

R2 institutions play a vital role in driving economic development, fostering industry partnerships, and addressing critical societal challenges. With this achievement, VSU can increase its impact in key research areas such as agriculture, health outcomes, computer and data science, advanced manufacturing, and STEM education.

According to the Carnegie Classification, institutions of higher education with at least $5 million in total research expenditures annually and produce at least 20 research doctorates per year qualify for the R2 designation.

VSU remains committed to exploring innovative research projects while offering transformative research opportunities to students.

To learn more about research initiatives at Virginia State University, visit vsu.edu/research.