Langston University, Oklahoma’s only Historically Black College and University (HBCU), has officially been named a Research College and University by the Carnegie Classification of Higher Education Institutions—a distinction that only 216 institutions nationwide can claim.
This designation solidifies Langston’s growing reputation as a powerhouse for research and innovation, proving once again that HBCUs are not just relevant—they’re leading.
“This recognition highlights the hard work and dedication of our researchers, faculty, and staff who strive to strengthen the academy,” said Dr. Alonzo Peterson, Langston’s Vice President for Academic Affairs. “We have very smart people at Langston University. I am always inspired when I visit the labs or sit down with my colleagues.”
For generations, Black excellence has thrived at Langston, and this new designation places the university on a national stage as a leader in research.
Research That Empowers Black Communities
Langston University isn’t new to the game when it comes to innovation. It has already made a global impact through the E. (Kika) de la Garza American Institute for Goat Research, a program internationally recognized for its groundbreaking work in sustainable agriculture.
The university is also driving economic development, biotechnology, aquaculture, agribusiness, and rural economic growth, filling the gaps left by institutions that often overlook Black and marginalized communities.
One of Langston’s most critical research arms, the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center, has been renewed for a third five-year funding cycle by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research. The move solidifies its role as a national leader in disability research.
What this Carnegie Classification means for Langston
Since 1973, the Carnegie Classification has been the gold standard for higher education rankings, categorizing institutions based on their research impact. Traditionally, the Research 1 (R1) and Research 2 (R2) designations were reserved for predominantly White institutions (PWIs) with massive research budgets.
But in 2025, Carnegie expanded its metrics, creating a third research designation specifically for non-doctoral institutions: Research College and University. To qualify, institutions must spend at least $2.5 million annually on research and development—a benchmark Langston University exceeds four times over.
“Langston University’s research expenditures totaled $10.5 million in fiscal year 2023,” said President Ruth Ray Jackson. “This recognition underscores Langston University’s commitment to expanding research excellence and advancing our institutional impact.”
Langston stands among the best
Out of over 4,300 higher education institutions in the U.S., only 542 schools hold a research designation. Of those, just 40 are HBCUs—a glaring reminder of the structural barriers that Black institutions face when it comes to funding and recognition.
Notably, all 19 of the 1890 land-grant HBCUs—including Langston—have now secured a research designation, further proving that HBCUs are the future of innovation and academic excellence.
While Langston already meets the financial threshold for R2 classification, it needs to award at least 20 research doctorates annually to qualify. Currently, Langston offers one doctoral program—the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)—which is a professional doctorate, not a research doctorate.
That hasn’t stopped the university from pushing boundaries, shattering expectations, and advancing research that directly benefits Black communities as Langston joins the ranks of Carnegie Classification research colleges and universities.
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