The first graduate degrees at the University of Cincinnati were awarded in 1888. In the one hundred years that have elapsed, the graduate programs have grown from 14 master's degrees in traditional fields to master's degrees in 140 areas and doctoral degrees in 81 programs. In the academic year 1997-98, a total of 1,329 master's and 272 doctoral students earned graduate and professional degrees through Research and Advanced Studies.

For more than one hundred years, the University of Cincinnati has retained its urban mission and its deep commitment to excellence in graduate education and research. In 1998 alone, externally sponsored program funding exceeded $115 million.

Research and Advanced Studies exists to serve the needs of faculty and graduate students - to enhance the efforts of these constituencies through academic leadership, administrative service and financial support. The division responds to the comprehensive statement of purpose of the university, that ". . . like other universities, ours is primarily concerned with learning and teaching - with study and research on one hand and with communication of what is learned on the other."

The primary functions of the division revolve around the twin priorities of graduate studies and research. The division is administered by the Vice President for Research and University Dean for Advanced Studies who is advised by two bodies representing the All-University Graduate Faculty: the University Graduate Council and the University Research Council.