Carnegie Commission’s reclassification result of increase in professional graduate programs and research
Alvernia University earns the Professional/Doctoral University designation by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education, reflecting the university’s strategic direction and continued progression toward becoming a regional comprehensive university. The upgraded status results from an increase in the number of professional graduate program offerings, graduates, and the university’s commitment to research.
“This upgraded classification is a natural progression for Alvernia’s strategic direction, growth in academic offerings, and a new experiential learning model focused on technical outcomes and commitment to academic excellence,” said Alvernia University President John R. Loyack. “We are thankful to the Carnegie Commission for their recognition of our university’s commitment to providing a comprehensive educational approach to those in the Berks County, greater southeastern Pennsylvania region and beyond. The Carnegie recognition represents confirmation of the progress we have made implementing our Alvernia Advantage strategic plan over the last three years.”
The Carnegie Commission launched the Classification system in 1970 to support its research and policy analysis program. Alvernia was previously rated M2, Master’s Colleges and Universities, Medium Program, based on the Carnegie evaluation in 2018. Alvernia currently offers a doctoral research program in Leadership and professional practice doctoral programs in Physical Therapy and Nursing.
“Alvernia is committed to offering doctorate programs that benefit our students and have a direct impact on the health, leadership and economic growth in the communities we serve,” said Alvernia University Senior Vice President and Provost Glynis Fitzgerald. “Our upgraded classification is a testament to our dedicated faculty, hardworking staff, and determined students in our doctoral programs and should be a source of pride for our entire community, including current and prospective students and alumni.”
Alvernia is the only institution in the region to earn the Professional/Doctoral classification. The upgraded classification will allow the university to apply for new grants to fund academic research, academic programming and professional development.
The university previously earned the Carnegie Foundation’s Community Engagement Classification in 2015 for its strong commitment to community service.
