USC Upstate is excited to share its recognition in the 2025 Carnegie Classification with a newly earned Research Colleges and Universities (RCU) designation. This achievement emphasizes the university’s deepening focus on research advancement and creativity, showcasing its commitment to nurturing academic development and impactful learning opportunities for students.
Dr. Joshua Ruppel, director of research and professor of chemistry, praised the contributions of faculty and staff. “This significant achievement is a testament to the dedication of our research community. I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve accomplished and look forward to expanding research opportunities and transformative experiences for our students.”
This recognition is part of the newly redesigned Carnegie Classification framework, led by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The RCU designation identifies colleges and universities that have built robust research enterprises but may not offer extensive doctoral programs. Institutions with this classification must spend at least $2.5 million annually on research and development activities, which further emphasizes the university’s ongoing investments in innovation and scholarship.
Chancellor Bennie L. Harris also celebrated the milestone. “Our cutting-edge research is driving innovation and helping to shape the workers and workforce of tomorrow,” Harris said. “This new categorization from Carnegie will help shine a light on our great research — and the significant impact it’s having on our world.”
USC Upstate continues to enhance its research initiatives and pursue new opportunities for academic and institutional growth with the support of many departments and people. The office of Sponsored Awards and Research and Support provides comprehensive research funding services, including identifying grant opportunities, assisting with proposal writing, and offering post-award services such as training on compliance and grant management. These services ensure a seamless experience from applying for external funding to managing awarded grants.
“We are very proud of the success of our faculty in securing research grants and of the support provided in our sponsored awards and research office,” said Dr. Pamela Steinke, provost and senior vice chancellor for academic affairs. “This recognition speaks to USC Upstate’s commitment to realizing our strategic priorities of providing academically distinct opportunities for our students, including increasing undergraduate research and partnering with the community to increase grant funding.”
To see some of the impactful work being done at USC Upstate, save the date for the 21st annual SC Upstate Research Symposium on Friday, April 11, 2025. This event is an opportunity for college students in the region to present their research through poster sessions and connect with participants, guests, and company representatives.
Click here for more information about USC Upstate’s Carnegie Classifications.
About the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching: The Carnegie Foundation is dedicated to catalyzing transformational change in education to ensure every student has the opportunity to live a fulfilling life. Established in 1906, the foundation has driven significant educational advancements, including the creation of Pell Grants and the Carnegie Classifications for Higher Education.
About the American Council on Education (ACE): ACE unites and leads over 1,600 higher education institutions, designing solutions for today’s challenges and advancing public policy to support a diverse and dynamic higher education sector. Learn more at www.acenet.edu or follow ACE on X (formerly Twitter) @ACEducation and LinkedIn at American Council on Education.