University of Detroit Mercy Achieves Prestigious Research University Status

The University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) has officially been recognized as a Research University by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. This significant classification, announced in February, reflects the university's dedication to research and its potential for innovation, placing it among just 216 institutions nationwide that have received this honor.

The Carnegie designation is pivotal, especially for colleges that historically have not been recognized for their research activity. It highlights research initiatives in institutions, including those that may not offer many or any doctoral degrees. Furthermore, it acknowledges universities that allocate an average of at least $2.5 million towards research and development.

In the context of Michigan's academic landscape, UDM stands out, as only seven universities in the state have achieved this influential designation. This recognition is expected to bolster the university's efforts to attract more students, highly qualified faculty, and significant research grants in the coming years.

UDM's commitment to research is evident through its focus on undergraduate student involvement in various projects aimed at addressing workforce needs while simultaneously enhancing the economy. Over the past few years, the university has engaged in several substantial funded research ventures. For instance, UDM secured $3.79 million from the U.S. Department of Energy, collaborating with its School of Architecture and the College of Engineering and Science to improve energy efficiency within 13 nonprofit-owned buildings across Detroit, Highland Park, and Hamtramck.

In another notable initiative, the university received $2 million from the National Science Foundation aimed at creating partnerships with businesses spanning various engineering and computer science disciplines. Additionally, UDM was granted $1.12 million from the U.S. Department of Defense to establish the Metro Detroit Regional Vehicle Cybersecurity Institute, reinforcing its role in enhancing the cybersecurity workforce in the region.

Over the past three years, UDM has averaged about $5 million in grant-funded research projects, and this figure is projected to grow as the university builds on its research momentum. To highlight the importance of grant funding and to inspire faculty and students alike to pursue research-related projects, UDM hosts an annual event called the Celebration of Scholarly Achievement and Community Engagement. This event features presentations and poster displays where hundreds of student, faculty, and staff researchers showcase their work findings. This year's celebration is set for April 3, from noon to 8:30 p.m., at the McNichols Campus.

The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education is recognized as the premier framework for categorizing the diverse landscape of higher education institutions throughout the United States. For more information on this classification system, interested parties can visit the official Carnegie website.

UDM's ascent as a Research University signals a promising future for its academic community and the students it serves. With enhanced research capabilities and opportunities, the university is set to play a significant role in addressing key societal challenges and fostering innovation across various sectors in Michigan and beyond.