FSU, UF named state’s top research universities

Florida State University

Florida State University and the University of Florida have been officially designated as the state’s two preeminent research universities.

The Florida Board of Governors voted Monday to give the title to both schools. The decision not only brings a bit of extra prestige, but it also means millions in additional money from the Florida Legislature.

FSU, which is based in Tallahassee, met 11 of the standards used for designation. UF, which is based in Gainesville, met all 12.

The standards include such criteria as spending on research, six-year graduation rates, the number of doctoral degrees awarded and the number of patents awarded.

UF’s designation also earns the university the right to set up a program where the school will offer four-year degrees completely online.