Brooklyn College has been officially recognized as a leading research institution by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education (ACE). The college’s inclusion in the new Research Colleges and Universities (RCU) category highlights its significant commitment to advancing research while making a profound impact in academia and beyond.

This new category acknowledges institutions that allocate at least $2.5 million annually to research, yet may not have historically received recognition for their research activities—especially those that do not confer doctoral degrees. Brooklyn College’s inclusion, alongside other CUNY undergraduate colleges, demonstrates its pivotal role in producing ground-breaking research across its five schools.

“The recognition of Brooklyn College as a leading research institution is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our faculty and students,” said President Michelle J. Anderson. “We are proud to be part of this emerging category that reflects the valuable contributions of our research, which not only enriches our academic community but also addresses real-world challenges.”

Brooklyn College’s research spans a wide range of fields, from the humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and technology. Faculty members are at the forefront of their disciplines, fostering an environment that encourages new discoveries, supports student involvement in research, and promotes collaboration both locally and globally.

In April 2025, ACE and the Carnegie Foundation will publish their 2025 Institutional Classification, which categorizes higher education institutions by various characteristics, including the types of degrees they offer, the fields of study they emphasize, and the size of the institution.