Carnegie R1 Progress

Over the next 10 years, Morgan will emerge as a R1 Doctoral Research University fully engaged in basic and applied research and creative interdisciplinary inquiries ungirded and sustained through increased research grants and contracts.

In alignment with President Wilson’s goal of achieving R1 Research University definition by 2030, the Division of Research and Economic Development was tasked with spearheading the efforts toward that milestone through collaboration with university partners including Senior Leadership, the Provost, Deans and faculty. Since the release of the 2021 Strategic Plan, the University has positioned itself to achieve the designation sooner than anticipated, with an increase in research grants and contracts. The University has also strategically emphasized the advancement of students through the Morgan pipeline from the baccalaureate to doctoral level.

For the fiscal year 2025, Morgan set a new record by earning $104.4 million in sponsored research funding, marking the first time it had exceeded $100 million in research commitments within a single fiscal year. Reaching this milestone, in addition to establishing several critically relevant public impact research centers, underscores Morgan’s steady ascent toward achieving an R1 (very high research activity) Carnegie classification. As an urban institution, Morgan is uniquely positioned to address many pressing societal challenges, discover innovative solutions and deliver life-changing economic benefits to its students and communities in the greater Baltimore area and beyond.

PATHWAY TO R1

President Wilson shares his insights on Morgan’s accession to Carnegie R1 Research University status. He shares the significance of the designation in the HBCU landscape and how it will position Morgan State University as a leading research institution and how it will impact Morgan students moving forward.