Benefits of Undergraduate Research
Why Undergraduate Research?
Research demonstrates that students who engage in High-Impact Practices such as undergraduate research, graduate on time, earn better grades, and are better prepared for the demands of post-graduate education and the world of work. Evidence-based research also indicates that engagement in HIP activities increase student persistence and retention.
The Council for Undergraduate Research (CUR)* defines UR as: A mentored investigation or creative inquiry conducted by undergraduates that seeks to make a scholarly or artistic contribution to knowledge.
| Enhances student learning through mentoring relationships with faculty | |
| Increases retention and graduation in academic programs | |
| Increases enrollment in graduate education and provides effective career preparation | |
| Develops critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving and intellectual independence | |
| Develops an understanding of research methodology | |
| Promotes an innovation-oriented culture | |
| Develops competencies that speak to career-readiness |
At UTC, students who engage in an undergraduate research project or creative activity:
...work under the direction of a mentor or mentors to acquire research and career skills.
...engage in scholarly discovery and/or creative inquiry, and
...make contributions to society through their research.
Engaging in UR adds value to a UTC degree. UR Engagement helps students:
- Gain a competitive advantage for careers and advanced study.
- Develop workforce and life skills.
- Network with faculty and other professionals.
- Become self-directed, lifelong learners.