R2 to R1 Frequently Asked Questions - Office of Research and Sponsored Programs

What is R1?

R1 is a term used by the Carnegie Foundation to categorize doctoral granting universities with the highest performance in key areas associated with Research and Development (R&D).

What are the Carnegie classifications for doctoral granting universities?

There are three classifications for doctoral granting universities – R1 (very high research activity), R2 (high research activity) and D/PU (doctoral/professional universities).

What classification is Rutgers University – Newark (RU-N)?

What is considered by the Carnegie Foundation to determine the research classification?

The R1 designation depends on achieving two things every fiscal year: (1) over 70 research doctorates awarded and (2) over $50 million of research expenditures. To learn more about the new classification see https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/carnegie-classification/research-designations/

What is the definition of “research”?

For R1 purposes, “research” is defined as “creative and systematic work undertaken to increase the stock of knowledge — including knowledge of humankind, culture, and society — and to devise new applications of available knowledge.” This includes:
- Experimental or theoretical work
- Applied work — directed toward a specific, practical aim or objective
- Experimental “development” — that is, “systematic work, drawing on knowledge gained from research and practical experience and producing additional knowledge, which is directed toward producing new products or processes or toward improving existing products or processes.”
- Training Activities — specifically, “involving the training of individuals in research techniques where such activities utilize the same facilities as other research and development activities and where such activities are not included in the instruction function.

Why is RU-N striving to become an R1 institution?

Research and creative activity are central to RU-N’s identity and impact. For 80 years Rutgers-Newark has expanded externally funded research, strengthened doctoral programs, and deepened community-engaged scholarship. Pursuing R1 status is the next step in RU-N’s evolution as a leading urban public research university—building on our momentum and positioning us for even greater national recognition and impact in the next Carnegie assessment.

Why does R1 matter to the mission of RU-N?

R1 strengthens RU-N’s ability to advance its public mission as an anchor institution. RU-N is committed to social mobility, community engagement, and addressing complex societal challenges through research, teaching, and service. Expanding our research enterprise enhances our ability to:
- Advance opportunity
- Improve quality of life in Newark and across New Jersey
- Translate scholarship into policy, practice, and innovation
- Contribute to inclusive economic growth

How does R1 align with RU-N’s strategic priorities?

The path to R1 reinforces the university’s long-term goals and strengthens its national competitiveness. Our strategic vision emphasizes academic excellence, student success, research growth, and community partnership. Expanding research capacity directly supports these priorities by:
- Increasing doctoral enrollment and completion
- Strengthening faculty recruitment and retention
- Expanding external funding and sponsored research
- Creating more research opportunities for students

How would R1 status benefit Newark and the surrounding region?

As an anchor institution, RU-N’s growth strengthens the city and state it serves. R1 institutions are powerful drivers of regional development. Increased research and development activity attracts investment, industry partnerships, and innovation ecosystems. For Newark and the broader New Jersey region, this means:
- Greater economic activity and job creation
- Expanded workforce development opportunities
- Stronger cross-sector partnerships
- Increased visibility as a hub for research and innovation

What broader benefits would achieving R1 bring to RU-N?

Achieving R1 status expands RU-N’s ability to lead on issues of justice and opportunity. A stronger research and creative enterprise enables the university to secure larger grants, drive interdisciplinary solutions, and advance scholarship that addresses disparities and promotes inclusive prosperity. Ultimately, R1 enhances RU-N’s capacity to generate knowledge, cultivate talent, and serve as a catalyst for social and economic progress.

How does R1 status benefit students?

High levels of research activity means more opportunities for students at RU-N. They will have expanded access to research labs, creative studios, funded projects, and experiential learning. Undergraduate and graduate students alike will gain hands-on experience producing knowledge, presenting their work, and preparing for competitive careers and advanced study.

Does R1 change our commitment to teaching?

No—R1 enhances it. Research and teaching go hand in hand. Faculty who are actively conducting research bring cutting-edge knowledge into the classroom. As our research grows, so do opportunities for experiential, inquiry-based learning. So, our commitment to teaching excellence remains unwavering—R1 simply deepens the impact.

What role do faculty play?

Faculty are at the heart of this effort. Through research, creative activity, mentorship, and community engagement, faculty expand knowledge and prepare students to succeed. Securing external funding and leading innovative projects helps elevate RU-N’s national profile while directly benefiting students.

What role do staff play?

Every employee contributes to R1 success. Staff ensure that our systems, spaces, and processes operate effectively. From research administration to facilities and student support, staff enable the daily work that strengthens our research and academic mission. In addition, some staff are research staff, whose primary responsibilities are related to research and research spaces.R1 is a shared journey—and a shared achievement.