WSSU research endeavors are centralized to three areas: health and social justice, community and economic development, and STEM innovation. As a Historically-Black College and University (HBCU) our researchers benefit from having access to specialized communities, and having diverse perspectives that institutions without our designation recruit for research collaborations.
Annual Figures 2018-19
450 Students Supported
91 Awards
$52.9 M Awarded
11 Research Centers
Research at WSSU has a global impact. The translational research we conduct helps communities that need our support most. The basic research we explore contributes to the disciplines in ways only HBCUs can. Supporting research at WSSU supports more than just WSSU students, it supports our communities.
Community Engaged Scholarship
North Carolina Mathematics and Science Education Network (NC-MSEN) is a community based project to recruit student grades 6-12 to pursue high level mathematics and science based courses by preparing them with Saturday Academy, the Summer Enrichment Program, tutoring, mathematics and science competitions, field trips, Parent Involvement for Excellence (PIE) Clubs, and leadership development.
CSEM’s B.I.G. Idea in Community Engagement is an integrative needs-based approach that connects businesses, individuals, and governments to help generate interventions and structural reform for the benefit of the community.
International Research through Study Abroad engages students in scholarship on a global level. Students develop multi-cultural perspectives by traveling to locations like South Africa, Brazil, or South Korea and participate in humanities and social science projects that are authentic to the local communities to which they travel.
WSSU Research In the News
Winston-Salem State University VR innovation earns Top 5 national recognition from Fast Company
March 24, 2026
A groundbreaking virtual reality initiative born out of Winston-Salem State University’s research program has earned national recognition, further elevating the university’s role as a leader in innovation and workforce development.
WSSU launches ‘We Are Rising’ strategic plan to drive student success, community impact
March 20, 2026
It was a community affair as Winston-Salem State University launched its refreshed strategic plan, “We Are Rising,” during a two-day event that brought together alumni, state officials and community and business leaders.
WSSU to host major cancer screening and prevention symposium March 26-27
March 16, 2026
WSSU will host a two-day cancer awareness symposium focused on prevention, screening and equitable access to health care March 26-27 at the Anderson Center’s McNeil Ballroom.
