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Undergraduate Research

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Our faculty takes great pride in the humanities, social and human science, and creative research our students undertake. Our college provides various forms of support to help you conduct, fund, present, and publish your research.

Apply Now For Research Funds

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

You can register for our independent study or undergraduate research courses, which provide opportunities to complete a research project with the guidance of a faculty mentor. Ask your academic advisor for more information.

Our faculty enjoy sharing their research with students. If you're curious about a professor's area of research, ask about pursuing a collaborative project or invite a professor to mentor you while pursing your own ideas.  

In the Honors College you may choose to participate in research as you meet requirements for the Honors Laureate Diploma. It is an excellent opportunity to develop and demonstrate your knowledge and to prepare for graduate study or careers requiring advanced research skills.

Funding Your Research

Grants to fund research and presentations in the fall and spring are available each year. The application is open to undergraduate students majoring or minoring in the college and working with a faculty mentor. The funds may cover the cost of conducting research or for travel to present or perform work.

To apply, complete the application and request a faculty endorsement:

Faculty are invited to apply for funds to offer paid undergraduate research positions. The funds are exhausted for 2022-2023. Check back for 2023-2024 in September 2023.    

  • Faculty Undergraduate Research Funding Application - Closed for 2022-2023 

Department representatives are invited to request funds to support a research event. 

  • Funds (up to $200) are typically available to support department or school undergraduate research events. Email Monica Kimbrell at mkimbrel@vt.edu to request funds or propose an event.

Many departments have funds to support research. Ask your advisor for more information.

The University Office of Undergraduate Research offers Conference Travel Funds to present your work.

 

Presenting Your Research

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Dennis Dean Undergraduate Research and Creative Scholarship Conference
The Office of Undergraduate Research hosts this conference each April, where you can present undergraduate research posters, papers, and projects.

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Department Research Events 
Departments offer events to showcase the research and creative scholarship of undergraduate students. For example, the English Department hosts an Undergraduate Research and Writing Symposium and the History Department offers an Undergraduate Research Showcase and Spring Tea.

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ACC Meeting of the Minds

Each spring, the ACC puts on a conference that highlights undergraduate research. Presenters are chosen by each participating university.

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National Collegiate Research Conference

NCRC is a platform for undergraduates from across the nation to share their interest in research.

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National Conference on Undergraduate Research

This interdisciplinary conference hosts students representing universities, both nationally and internationally. 

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Phi Alpha Theta Regional Conference

Each spring, the Phi Alpha Theta history honors society sponsors a series of regional conferences.

Publishing Your Research