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Undergraduate Research

Maryland Student Researchers: Get Involved!

The Maryland Student Researchers Program provides an opportunity for all students to work with faculty mentors on ongoing research. All you need to be is motivated, curious, and responsible! Students new to research as well as students with previous research experience have found this to be an interesting and rewarding experience. Go to the Maryland Center for Undergraduate Research, 2100D McKeldin Library for more information and to sign up.

Another (less formal) way to find research opportunities is to check directly with your faculty members or Ph.D.-level graduate assistants with whom you share common academic interests. Almost all of them are doing research and many of them (especially the Ph.D. students) would love to have some help collecting data. You can find their contact information in the UM Directories and/or on their departmental webpage. You may be able to gain academic credit for the experience if your time commitment is sufficient, either through ENSP 386 Internship or "Independent Study."

The Senior Summer Scholars program provides financial assistance to rising seniors who propose an independent research project with faculty guidance during the summer before senior year. Application deadlines are generally in early March; and the application requirements and research experience is similar to the REU described below so you'll want to start planning in the Fall of junior year to take best advantage of the opportunity. Go to the Maryland Center for Undergraduate Research, 2100D McKeldin Library for more information and application materials.

Honors in ENSP

The Environmental Science and Policy (ENSP) Honors Program provides interested and energetic undergraduates the opportunity to engage in independent study under the guidance of an ENSP faculty member. To be considered for admission, students must have 45-75 credits, a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher and a 3.5 or higher in all courses required for the ENSP core and concentration. Transfer students with equivalent academic records (GPA and credits completed), are also encouraged to apply. NOTE: All students who meet the application requirements below are eligible to apply to a Departmental Honors program; you need not have been a member of University Honors.

REU: Research Experiences for Undergraduates

REUs are excellent opportunities for highly qualified students who want to explore a career in research. Typically, each site selects 10-15 students from across the country; and provides housing, social activities, and a $3,500+ stipend. Most participants are rising seniors; however, rising juniors and new graduates may be eligible in some cases. Application deadlines fall between February 1 - March 15 each year (it varies by institution) and require a personal statement, resume, and 1-2 faculty recommendations. Start planning in the Fall of sophomore or junior year to take best advantage of these opportunities. The schools listed below are a sampling of what's available. See the full NSF/REU Program list HERE.

** ENSP students have participated in these programs.