Carnegie Classification
Carnegie Classification
The Carnegie Classification, through the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of
Teaching, is an all-inclusive classification for colleges and universities and considered
the “leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity” within
institutions of higher education across the US for 4-plus decades. The Carnegie Foundation,
as defined by NERCE is “an independent policy and research center that supports needed
transformation in American education through tighter connections between teaching
practice, evidence of student learning, the communication and use of this evidence,
and structured opportunities to build knowledge.” Missouri State University is classified as a Carnegie University.
In addition to the “all-inclusive” classification, Missouri State University received, in 2010, the prestigious Community Engagement Classification. The Carnegie Foundation’s Classification for Community Engagement is an elective and voluntary classification that involves data collection and documentation of important aspects of institutional mission, identify and commitments, and requires substantial effort invested by participating institutions. This classification is not an award, but rather an “evidence-based documentation of institution practice to be used in a process of self-assessment and quality improvement”. Carnegie reviews the documentation to determine if an institution qualifies for recognition as a community engaged institution.
A copy of the list of Community Engagement-Classified Universities, the Missouri State 2010 Application for the Community Engagement classification, and the letter acknowledging receipt of this classification can be found in the links below:
- Board of Governors – Why Carnegie is important for Missouri State University
- Carnegie 2010 Application / Document Reporting Form
- Carnegie 2011 Notification Letter
- Letter to the President of Missouri State University
How is Community Engagement Defined by Carnegie?
“Community Engagement is defined as the collaboration between institutions of higher education and their larger community for the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources in a context of partnership and reciprocity. The purpose of community engagement is the partnership of college and university knowledge and resources with those of the public and private sectors to enrich scholarship, research, and creative activity; enhance curriculum, teaching and learning; prepare educated, engaged citizens; strengthen democratic values and civic responsibility; address critical societal issues; and contribute to the public good.” The Carnegie Classification aligns with the Vision, Mission, and Goals of Missouri State University.