Sacramento State Makes Strides as A High Research Activity Institution with R2 Designation

Sacramento State Recognized for Research Excellence

In a remarkable achievement, Sacramento State has been designated as a Research 2 (R2) institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. This recognition is a testament to the university's commitment to research and scholarly endeavors, placing it among an exclusive group of just 15 California colleges and universities with similar honors.

This prestigious R2 classification reflects Sac State's significant efforts in advancing research activity and producing high-quality graduates. The university successfully met the R2 requirements by allocating over $5 million to research endeavors while awarding at least 20 doctoral degrees annually. In the 2022-2023 academic year alone, Sacramento State invested a remarkable $28 million in research projects and conferred 26 research doctorates, setting a strong precedent for future innovation.

Sacramento State President Luke Wood stated, "This achievement manifests the exceptional efforts of our faculty, students, and staff who have elevated our research to new heights. Their dedication to engaging in impactful research to solve pressing real-world issues and create new knowledge has revitalized our campus into a center of innovation and discovery."

Attaining this status is also expected to lead to expanded funding avenues and enhanced partnerships with industry, in addition to fostering deeper connections within the community. Carlos Nevarez, interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, noted the importance of this accomplishment, saying, "The synergy between high-level research and teaching enriches the educational experiences of our students, enabling undergraduates to collaborate with professors in laboratories and doctoral candidates to pursue groundbreaking research initiatives."

Even with this significant milestone, Sacramento State remains steadfast in its commitment to excellent teaching and practical learning experiences for both faculty and students. The university aims to maintain a balance between advancing research and prioritizing quality education, ensuring that its mission to "transform lives by preparing students for leadership, service, and success" continues to be realized.

Over the years, Sacramento State has demonstrated impressive growth, evidenced by a graduation rate exceeding 30% and a notable enrollment increase of 3.1%. These achievements not only reflect the university's strong commitment to education but also its dedication to fostering a thriving academic environment.

Sacramento State is a regional comprehensive university situated in California's capital, which boasts the fifth-largest economy in the world. Part of the California State University system, the university stands as the sixth-largest campus, hosting over 31,000 students, with 91% being undergraduates. Additionally, Sacramento State is proud to be a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), and a Black-Serving Institution (BSI).

The path ahead is promising for Sacramento State, as it embraces its new R2 status while continuing to prioritize quality education and research that benefits both its community and the broader academic field. With a firm focus on fostering innovation, Sac State is poised to continue evolving as an essential hub for knowledge and exploration in the years to come.