Drexel Sustains Prestigious R1 Research Classification

Dear Students and Colleagues,

We are proud to share the exciting news that Drexel University has again achieved national recognition in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, retaining its designation as an “R1 Doctoral University: Very High Research Activity.” Drexel is one of 146 institutions out of approximately 3,900 to receive this prestigious classification, indicating the highest level of research activity. Notably, we are one of only 39 private universities to earn the distinction.

This year’s Carnegie Classification is based on data from FY19 and FY20, which include public data on completions, enrollment and instructional staffing, and several National Science Foundation-conducted surveys. Since first receiving R1 designation in 2018, Drexel’s performance has improved on the majority of the classification metrics, an especially impressive achievement considering that the closure of Hahnemann University Hospital occurred during the review period. This serves as a strong testament to the resiliency and resourcefulness within Drexel’s research ecosystem.

The Carnegie Classification validates Drexel’s growing reputation as a global, comprehensive research university. It also bolsters our efforts toward securing research funding, recruiting high-quality faculty and students, and upholding the pillars of the Strategic Plan. Congratulations to our many researchers and all who contributed to this important accomplishment.

Sincerely,

John Fry
President

Paul E. Jensen
Executive Vice President
Nina Henderson Provost

Aleister Saunders
Executive Vice Provost for Research & Innovation