UNK’s research impact earns national recognition from Carnegie Foundation
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KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney has been classified as a Research College and University by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation, placing it among an elite group of institutions recognized for significant research activity.
UNK is one of just 216 colleges and universities nationwide – and one of only 127 public institutions – to receive this new classification, which acknowledges research efforts at schools that do not fit the traditional R1 or R2 research university model.
“This designation affirms what we already know: that impactful, high-level research is happening right here at UNK,” said Kim Carlson, assistant vice chancellor for research and creative activity. “Our faculty and students are tackling real-world challenges, securing major research grants and making meaningful contributions across a wide range of disciplines.”
The RCU designation was introduced to highlight colleges and universities that invest heavily in research but may not have been historically recognized for it. Schools must spend at least $2.5 million annually on research to qualify.
UNK exceeds that threshold, with 31 federal research grants secured in the last four years, totaling $8.7 million in funding. These grants support research across multiple fields, including health sciences, agriculture, education and business.
“Our research enterprise has grown tremendously, and this recognition signals to our peers, partners and prospective students that UNK is a serious research institution,” Carlson added. “This is just the beginning. We are committed to fostering innovation, expanding research opportunities and making a real impact in Nebraska and beyond.”
The Carnegie Foundation evaluates 3,941 higher education institutions nationwide, but only 542 – or 13.8% – receive a research classification.