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Undergraduate Research

Academic Credit for Research

Conducting research for academic credit is a great way to learn how to do research specific to your field of interest and build relationships with faculty. There are a variety of opportunities, including research methods courses and independent studies.  

Independent Studies

Yes! You can get course credit to do research through an independent study. Some majors even require it. 

An independent study is a class that you develop with your instructor or faculty mentor. 

Credits and Hours
Ranges from one to three credits and generally requires six to 12 hours of work each week. This varies and the schedule is flexible. 

Coursework
This is a graded course, so you may have to submit a paper or a report, or make a presentation. This varies and is decided between you and your mentor. 

How to Start

  1. Talk with your academic advisor to find out the process for the independent study course. Typically, this requires a form from the Registrar's office that is completed by you and your project mentor and requires signatures. Your advisor will help with this.
  2. Identify a faculty mentor and project.
    • If you are already involved in research with a mentor, ask if them if they'd be willing to supervise an independent study for you.
    • If you don't have a mentor, we can help you. Attend a Getting Started workshop, review the getting started video, or set up a research consultation with us!

 

Research Courses

Many disciplines offer for-credit classes with a research focus. Talk with your advisor about your options.

Types of Courses
Courses vary significantly. They may cover research methods or have a full research project component.

Hands-On Courses
Talk with your advisor, research mentor, or professors to find a course in your field that has a significant hands-on component.  


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