We are R1!
Carnegie R1 status unlocks new opportunities for the community and campus
The Roo community celebrates the news about R1 in February 2025. PHOTO / BRANDON PARIGO
The University of Missouri-Kansas City reached a historic milestone as Kansas City’s first Carnegie R1 institution, a prestigious designation that reflects years of dedication to research, innovation and community collaboration. With this achievement, UMKC joins an elite group of U.S. institutions reshaping the future of discovery and education.
Achieving the Carnegie R1 classification comes five years ahead of the 2030 goal set in the university’s strategic plan. This elite status represents a transformative era for UMKC, Kansas City and the broader region.
Learn more about UMKC research and the R1 designation in this issue of Perspectives and by visiting our R1 hub online at go.umkc.edu/R1.
“With UMKC and Kansas City working together, UMKC is becoming widely recognized for its excellence, and Kansas City is fast emerging as one of the nation’s top cities with a strong presence on the world stage. Together, there is nothing we cannot do.”
—C. Mauli Agrawal, chancellor of the University of Missouri-Kansas City
Click the audio button in the upper right to hear what UMKC and community leaders have to say about UMKC's R1 designation.
“Achieving Carnegie Research 1 classification is an incredible honor for UMKC and the entire UM System. Chancellor Agrawal, along with dedicated faculty and staff at UMKC, have worked hard to meet the requirements necessary for this remarkable accomplishment. We are proud to now have three R1 institutions within the UM System, which will transform our outreach and impact across the state.”
—Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri System
"UMKC's achievement of R1 status draws national attention to the groundbreaking work taking place in Kansas City. This accolade strengthens UMKC and Kansas City's reputation as an educational leader and a driver of innovation, showcasing the dedication and impact of its faculty, researchers and students."
—Quinton Lucas, mayor of Kansas City