As a consortium of Texas colleges and universities, we take pride in the achievements of our TIEC members in research and global academic collaboration. We are celebrating the recent classifications by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation, along with recognition from the U.S. State Department, which highlight the growing impact of Texas higher education in advancing research and international engagement.
Texas’ Leadership in Research
The 2025 Research Activity Designations confirm that Texas is home to 16 Research 1 (R1) institutions – the highest concentration of R1 schools of any state. R1 is the top-tier classification for research universities, and this achievement reflects sustained commitment to expanding research capacity, supporting faculty and students, and advancing scientific and technological discovery.
To earn R1 status, institutions must meet rigorous criteria, including a minimum annual research expenditure of $50 million and the conferral of at least 70 research doctorates per year. The following Texas institutions have achieved this designation:
- Baylor College of Medicine
- Baylor University
- Rice University
- Southern Methodist University
- Texas A&M University
- Texas Tech University
- The University of Texas at Arlington
- The University of Texas at Austin
- The University of Texas at Dallas
- The University of Texas at El Paso
- The University of Texas at San Antonio
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
- University of Houston
- University of North Texas
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
These institutions play a crucial role in driving economic development across Texas by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and providing experiential learning opportunities that equip students for careers in research, technology, and innovation.
Texas’ Role in Global Academic Exchange: Fulbright Program Recognition
Our institutions also continue to make a meaningful impact in global education through the Fulbright U.S. Student and Fulbright U.S. Scholar programs. Fulbright provides opportunities for students and faculty to conduct research, teach, and engage in cultural exchange abroad, strengthening international academic networks and fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
Several of our Texas member universities were recognized as top producers of Fulbright participants for the 2024-2025 academic cycle:
- Baylor University – Recognized for its contributions to the Fulbright U.S. Student Program
- Texas Tech University – A leading producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars
- University of Houston – Acknowledged for its high number of Fulbright U.S. Student awardees
Congratulations to these schools – and to all of our members who are home to Fulbright scholars and students this year!
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Texas Higher Education
As a consortium, we are committed to supporting the continued advancement of Texas higher education through research and international academic initiatives. By expanding research capabilities and fostering international collaboration, our institutions not only contribute to local economic development but also shape the broader academic landscape. We remain dedicated to strengthening Texas’ position as a leader in higher education and supporting our members as they prepare the next generation of scholars, researchers, and global professionals.
