Southern Connecticut State University Becomes Connecticut's First R2 University

Congratulations to Southern Connecticut State University on becoming Connecticut’s first Research 2 (R2) University!

Southern earned a 2025 Carnegie Classification for Institutions of Higher Education (Carnegie Classifications) high spending and Doctorate production (R2) research designation, placing it among an elite group of research-driven universities nationwide. Southern is the state’s first and only R2-designated university, and one of only 139 in the country which is significant for prospective students interested in research-driven careers. 

The Carnegie Classifications serve as the nation’s leading framework for categorizing research activity at colleges and universities in the United States. They are a critical benchmarking tool for policymakers, funders, and researchers.

This prestigious designation recognizes the dedication and hard work of Southern’s faculty, staff and students and their commitment to academic excellence and high-quality research. As an R2 university, Southern will have the opportunity to provide more access to students pursuing research-driven careers, expand competitiveness in research efforts, and attract new partnerships to support economic development in the state.

To meet the R2 threshold, an institution must award 20 research doctorates and spend $5 million annually on research - compared with 70 research doctorates and $50 million for R1. In fiscal year 2023, Southern accumulated $8,007,000 in research expenditures and awarded 29 research doctorates.

Congratulations to the entire Southern community on this remarkable achievement!