Florida International University emphasizes research as a major component of its mission. Sponsored research funding from outside sources grew more than four-fold over the last decade, from $13.4 million in 1990-91 to $61.2 million in 2000-01. These funds, secured through contracts and grants from private foundations, corporations, and federal and state agencies, are used to conduct research, provide stipends for graduate students and improve research facilities. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies FIU as a Doctoral/Research University-Extensive, the highest ranking in the organization's prestigious classification system. For more information about FIU Research, click here.