Charlotte rises in national research rankings 

UNC Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing research universities in the nation, climbing 46 spots year-over-year, according to the National Science Foundation’s Higher Education Research and Development Survey rankings, which were released Nov. 25. 

Based on a University-record research R&D expenditures of $92 million for 2022-23, Charlotte received its highest-ever HERD ranking, at No. 180 overall. This places Charlotte as the third-largest public research university in North Carolina. 

“Our ascent as a top-tier public research university is exciting for our region and state, and important for the industries we support,” said John Daniels, vice chancellor of the Division of Research. “These new rankings are an illustration of the work we’ve done to grow our research enterprise to power our region forward.” 

Driving research, innovation and growth

Since adopting a new vision in 2021 to become a globally recognized top-tier research university, Charlotte has increased its research expenditures by 77%. Strategic investments in research centers, partnerships and faculty support have propelled the University forward, positioning it as a hub for innovation, economic development and community engagement.

“Charlotte’s research enterprise is not only enhancing the University’s reputation but also creating measurable economic benefits,” Daniels added. “Each dollar invested in research generates $5 in economic activity, reinforcing our role as a driver of regional growth.”

Positioned for R1 recognition

The annual HERD report summarizes research expenditures — federal, state, industry and other funds universities spend on research activities — for 920 U.S. colleges and universities. 

The survey is one of two metrics that will be used in the upcoming Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education, which will be released early next year. To receive an R1, or top-tier, designation, a university must: 

• Have at least $50 million annual in research expenditures, as determined by the HERD survey
• Award at least 70 research doctorates in a recent year, as determined by the National Center for Education Statistics, or IPEDS

Charlotte well exceeds both metrics and is expected to receive R1 status, considered the nation’s top research designation. 

NSF HERD subject rankings

Charlotte also achieved top rankings for research expenditures in several academic disciplines. The University’s highest ranking is for computer and information sciences, at No. 75, placing Charlotte among the top 20% of institutions overall. 

Charlotte also ranks in the top 30% or higher for social sciences, physics, engineering and chemistry.