Research is at the heart of the Berkeley experience and an effective tool in teaching and learning. Undergraduates may initiate their own research projects, or assist on faculty-initiated research.

Undergraduates have opportunities to work on research of their own design through faculty-supervised Independent Study, Senior Thesis, or other special research courses in their departments, as well as research-based learning incorporated into regular lower- and upper-division courses.

In addition, there are several programs on campus that offer stipends or expense funds for students pursuing their own research. Among the largest are the Biology Fellows Program, the Haas Scholars Program, and the McNair Scholars Program. These are competitive and have eligibility stipulations; all require faculty to serve as research sponsors. Check the Undergraduate Research website for links to these programs and other research resources for students. There are programs available for students in all majors.

Faculty who wish to bring undergraduates into their own research will find eager apprentices through the Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program (URAP). URAP offers a $300-$500 expense grant to faculty who agree to mentor one or more undergraduates, acquaint them with the field, and teach them the necessary skills to contribute to the project. Invitations to participate are sent to faculty in March and October of each year. Undergraduates apply to listed projects at the start of each semester. Check online for information and faculty applications.

Some faculty include paid positions for undergraduate assistants in their grant proposals. National Science Foundation applicants will find that foundation especially willing to fund research experiences for undergraduates.

last updated on 3/21/07