Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education

The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education is a system that organizes colleges and universities in the United States based on their characteristics, such as the level of degrees they offer, their research activity, and their enrollment size. Established in 1970, it helps categorize institutions into types, like research universities, liberal arts colleges, and community colleges, making it easier to compare them. This classification is widely used for research, policy-making, and understanding the landscape of higher education, reflecting the diversity and mission of various institutions.