BREAKING: Michigan Tech Awarded R1 Classification Reserved for Nation’s Leading Research Institutions.

Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech) has achieved the prestigious R1 classification from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, officially placing it among the nation’s top research universities. This distinction recognizes institutions that demonstrate the highest levels of research activity, including substantial research expenditures and doctoral degree production.

The R1 designation is awarded to universities that meet specific criteria, such as spending a minimum of $50 million on research and development and awarding at least 70 doctoral degrees annually across various research fields. In fiscal year 2024, Michigan Tech reported research expenditures of $106.9 million and has consistently awarded an average of 85 doctoral degrees annually since 2016.

This achievement positions Michigan Tech as the fourth R1 university in Michigan, joining the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University. Notably, Michigan Tech is the only R1 institution in Michigan located in a rural area, situated in the Keweenaw Peninsula.