Questions about Undergraduate Research
Why should I do research as an undergraduate?
Participating in undergraduate research is a way to get a deeper understanding of a topic that you are passionate about. Plus, it’s a way to build community on campus, and it looks GREAT on your résumé!
Who can pursue research at The W and what kinds of research projects have undergraduates done?
Students from all majors and backgrounds pursue research, scholarship and creative performance. Although some people mistakenly think that research opportunities are limited to the sciences or to Honors students, there are independent study and research opportunities available in all departments, including the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
How do I get started?
Talk to your advisor, or contact the Coordinator of Undergraduate Research to connect you to opportunities happening on and off campus. You can also look at our list of ongoing opportunities.
How can I find funding?
If you would like to fund your research or travel to a conference to present your research, talk to the Coordinator of Undergraduate Research to find financial support.
When is the Undergraduate Research Conference?
In general, the conference is late during the Spring semester. Visit the OUR conference participation website for updated dates and deadlines.
Where is the Undergraduate Research Conference?
The conference is hybrid, meaning participants and audience members can take part in-person, or through remote or streaming options. For the in-person events, go to Fant Memorial Library, and for the streaming or recorded presentations, visit athenacommons.muw.edu/urc.
Can I present an assignment from class at the Undergraduate Research Conference?
Yes! Class projects are excellent candidates for the Undergraduate Research Conference. Any assignment that involved exploring a question with research—like papers, research proposals, lab reports, literature reviews, and class research projects—are fair game. Are you kind of proud of the work you did toward a class research assignment? Submit a proposal to the URC!
Are there different options for presentation formats?
Yes! You can submit an oral presentation (with optional visual aids), a poster, or an art exhibit or performance. You can also submit under the following evaluation categories: Long-term research for projects over 1 semester long, short term, proposals for projects that are ongoing, and asynchronous. For more about these categories, visit muw.edu/our/conference/participate.
Do I have to be an Honors College student to present at the Undergraduate Research Conference?
No! Anyone who has participated in a research project can submit their abstract.
How do I submit a proposal to present in the Undergraduate Research Conference?
All submissions to participate in the Undergraduate Research Conference are submitted online, using the event website. For help writing the proposal, submitting it in the online portal, or preparing for the conference, visit the OUR conference participation website, or watch this step-by-step YouTube video.
How can I participate in independent research outside of my regular class schedule?
If you’re hoping to conduct research independent of regular class assignments, consider applying to be a Summer Scholar! W Summer Scholars is a scholarship opportunity to pursue research with a faculty mentor for course credit in the summer. Participants receive funding for tuition, housing, and meals for 5 or 10 weeks. For more about Summer Scholars or to apply, click below
Can I pursue a research project outside of my major department?
Yes! Look at our list of opportunities to find research within your major or outside of your major!
Will I receive course credit for my research? Can research be used to meet general education requirements?
This depends on your major and/or minor, however, many students have received course credit if their research is through an internship program, a capstone project, or an ongoing class project.
How can my research be recognized?
We have compiled several sources that can highlight your research, many of which are conferences and publications on our campus. You can also participate in the W’s Undergraduate Research Conference, held in the spring.
Undergraduate Research Conference
Does my research have a time limit?
If your research will be used for course credit, then your limit could be between one and two semesters. However, each project’s time limit will vary, so be sure to discuss your research plans with a professor.