In a historic first, American University this spring received R1 status in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education—the nation’s leading framework for categorizing US higher education institutions.

The prestigious designation recognizes AU as among 187 doctoral research institutions in the country that exemplify “very high research activity”—producing at least $50 million in total scholarship and an average of at least 70 doctorates each year.

AU is among 41 universities that gained the top-tier ranking in 2025.

“R1 status is a testament to our faculty, staff, and students who produce groundbreaking ideas and translate their research into action through inclusive, interdisciplinary work,” AU president Jon Alger and Provost Vicky Wilkins wrote in a campus message.

Reactions from the AU community exploded on social media. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni shared how the honor raises the profile of scholars and puts a spotlight on the caliber of student experiences available on campus.

Achieving R1 status strengthens AU’s research capacity and its ability to attract and retain more distinguished professors and helps the university flex its dual strengths in research and teaching.

“Part of the reason I like working here is that [AU] is not a traditional R1 since we keep class sizes small and prioritize teaching and learning,” says SOC professor and Playful City Lab director Benjamin Stokes. “Both research and teaching are deeply valued.”

AU was set on this path more than a decade ago by former president Neil Kerwin, former provost Scott Bass, and the 2030 Initiative—a grassroots effort that identified six emerging research areas that the university could compete in at the highest level.

Through that push, AU increased its doctoral programs and achieved R2 status in 2016 under President Syliva Burwell. Change Can’t Wait, AU’s historic fundraising campaign, which closed in 2024, harnessed more than $156 million for faculty and research support, created nine endowed faculty research and teaching positions, and launched four signature centers.

Since 2019, the university has also doubled its externally funded research to $177 million. 

“This distinction reflects the incredible dedication of our colleagues, mentors, and leaders who have worked tirelessly to build a vibrant research community addressing the most pressing issues of our time,” says SPA doctoral candidate Karl VonZabern. “I’m proud to be part of this outstanding institution.”