When researching schools, you may come across the phrase “research university.” If you don’t exactly know what that term means, do not worry! Keep reading to learn more about research universities and all that they offer!
What is a research university?
A research university is a type of institution where the main responsibility is to teach undergraduate courses and conduct and publish research. Research is an essential part of these universities and research universities can be either private or public institutions. Oftentimes, research universities have renowned professors who are actively involved in research in their respective fields.
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Key characteristics of research universities
Many research universities share the same key characteristics:
- Advanced degree offerings (bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs)
- Faculty are expected to both teach and complete research
- Typically funded through grants, the government and private industries
- Faculty and students alike will engage in research projects and publish findings
- State-of-the-art labs, libraries and technology centers
- Graduate students play a central roles as research assistants or project leaders
- Contributions influence global fields such as medicine, artificial intelligence and climate change
- A large enrollment of diverse students
Also read: Everything you need to know about graduate assistantships
Research university vs regular university
Research universities differ from non-research or regular universities in many ways! View our chart below to learn more about the differences between research universities and non-research universities:
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Offers a wide range of degrees such as a bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree Large enrollment with a significant number of graduate studentsFaculty are selected based on their research experience and publications Students have opportunities to assist and lead research projects |
Primarily focuses on undergraduate education Smaller enrollmentFaculty are selected based on their teaching styles and contributions to student success Students spend more time in the classroom |
Is a research or regular university better?
Ultimately, the answer to this question is extremely dependent on your personal goals! Research universities are ideal if you are looking to pursue a graduate degree and want to participate in research. Regular universities are better if you thrive in a smaller class and prefer to focus on learning from professors in a close-knit environment.
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Research 1 vs Research 2 universities
Research universities can be classified into either research 1 (R1) or research 2 (R2) universities based on the prestige of the research conducted as well as the amount of federal and private funding the university receives. In this tier-based system, R1 universities are considered the best of the best! R1 universities are universities with a huge commitment to research, a large number of doctoral degrees granted, a notable amount of funding and highly-regarded research staff. Typically, R1 universities are doing research that make significant contributions to their respective field.
R2 universities are also deeply invested in research however, they do not compare to R1 universities in terms of the quantitative metrics such as funding and range of Ph.D. fields. Regardless, R2 universities still complete important research and make great contributions to their fields.
Ultimately, the R1 vs R2 classification does not necessarily mean one school is inherently better than another. Rather, it is a measure to classify how much research and funding a university participates in.
Notable R1 universities
This is only a small highlight of R1 universities! So, make sure to research specific schools you are interested in to discover if they are a R1 or R2 university.
Notable R2 universities
This is only a small highlight of R2 universities! So, make sure to research specific schools you are interested in to discover if they are a R1 or R2 university.
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Benefits of attending a research university
Many choices of study
Research universities are typically large institutions with a wide range of majors to choose from. Therefore, a huge advantage of attending a research university is the flexibility and freedom in fields to choose from. You can always find something to be passionate about at a research university!
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Hands-on experience
Research is a big part of a research university! So, a huge benefit is being able to participate in research and labs and gain valuable hands-on experience. Students can contribute to publications, patents and innovations all while attending university.
Great resume booster for graduate school
Research universities offer great opportunities and experiences to help boost your resume for graduate school. Additionally, most research universities have graduate programs that will actively recruit current undergraduate students. So, attending a research university can be a great way to build up your resume and connections to have the best chance of acceptance for graduate school.
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International opportunities
Research universities have great influence with government, industries and even international affiliates. Therefore, there may be a focus on solving global issues in fields like medicine. This can result in many international opportunities such as travel or work!
Impact of research universities
Research universities are critical for creating strong academic communities that contribute to continuous and ever-changing knowledge in various fields of study. Research universities have a direct impact on the local and global economy and contribute to scientific and societal advancements. Additionally, research universities create strong partnerships with local industries and government agencies.
Ultimately, research universities are extremely important institutions that help foster and cultivate change on a local and global scale. Involvement in research at a research university is an extremely rewarding and impactful experience, especially if in a field you are passionate about.
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Is a research university right for me?
Ultimately, if a research university is the right place for you depends on your personal goals and the subject you wish to pursue. However, if you would like to participate in any type of research at any level, a research university would be an amazing place to have opportunities to participate in research! However, just because it is a research university does not mean it is the university for you! Be sure to research schools that align with your interests, values and career goals.
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Do I have to do research if I attend a research university?
No, research is not a criteria for attending a research university. Research universities are a great place to find opportunities to participate in and complete research. However, it is not mandatory to do research if you do not want to or if it does not align with your career goals or interests.
There may be exceptions in which a specific major or program may require you to take research credits. So, if research does not interest you, you should check out the course catalog of your intended major to determine if research is a requirement!
Frequently asked questions about research universities
Are research universities hard to get into?
It depends on the specific school how selective they are, however, typically research universities can be very selective. Admissions will depend on your GPA, standardized test scores and essays.
Are research universities only for graduate students?
No! Research universities admit both undergraduate and graduate students. Typically, undergraduates will have opportunities to conduct research alongside graduate students at research universities.
Do research universities offer financial aid?
Yes! Most research universities will provide financial aid including scholarships, grants, work-study and student loans.
How can I get involved in research as an undergraduate student?
In order to become involved in research, you should approach professors who are doing work you are interested in. Then, you can join research assistant programs or apply for research grants and internships.
