Office of Undergraduate Research

WHAT IS UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH?                  

Research is a systematic process of asking questions, gathering and analyzing information, and developing new knowledge, understanding, or creative work. It can take place in a laboratory, library, studio, community, or any setting where meaningful questions are explored. Watch this short video to learn more about the many forms research can take.       

WHY PARTICIPATE IN UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH?

Undergraduate research does more than strengthen your résumé—it can shape your academic and professional future.

• Graduate School: Students who participate in undergraduate research are 9–14 percentage points more likely to enroll in a STEM graduate or professional program. Among students from underrepresented groups, the advantage may be as high as 17 percentage points. UCLA Higher Education Research Institute
• Retention: Research participation helps students build stronger relationships with faculty, connect classroom learning to real-world questions, and develop a greater sense of belonging—all factors associated with remaining enrolled in college.
• Persistence and Graduation: One multi-institutional study found that students who participated in undergraduate research were twice as likely to graduate within four years and more than 10 times as likely to graduate within six years as comparable nonparticipants. CBE—Life Sciences Education
• Career Preparation: Research develops skills employers value, including critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, data analysis, communication, adaptability, and project management. It also helps students clarify their career interests and build relationships with faculty mentors who can provide guidance and recommendations.

Note: These findings show strong associations across national and multi-institutional studies; outcomes vary by program and student circumstances.