Getting Started
UROC pairs undergraduate students who are interested in conducting research and ultimately applying to graduate school (Master or PhD) with a faculty mentor closely related to the students’ academic interests.
If you are interested in undergraduate research, please come in to UROC or you may email student inquiries to uroc@csumb.edu.
What is undergraduate research?
Undergraduate research can take many forms. Projects range from marine science and molecular genetics to media studies and the use of technology in education! However, as a starting point, here is how UROC defines undergraduate research...
Undergraduate research is an inquiry or investigation conducted by an undergraduate student that addresses a specific research question, utilizes appropriate research methodologies, adheres to the standards of the discipline, and results in the dissemination of findings.
Why undergraduate research?
Undergraduate research prepares you for graduate school, lets you apply your classroom knowledge and passion for learning in the real world, and gives you the opportunity to work alongside a research mentor. Through undergraduate research you will develop critical thinking, inquiry, communication, and analytical skills, and make authentic contributions to real-world research.
UROC McNair Scholar Sonia Olmos shares her thoughts about research
Internships vs. undergraduate research: What's the difference?
Internships
Internships are defined as supervised, career-related work experiences leading to development of knowledge, skills, and abilities needed in a particular profession.
Internships may also be related to research, education, or outreach activities. Typically internships are unpaid, and last anywhere from 3 months to one year.
Undergraduate research
Undergraduate research experiences are designed to involve students in planning, conducting, and (ideally) reporting original research. Undergraduate research takes many forms and ultimately prepares you for graduate school, lets you apply your classroom knowledge and passion for learning in the real world, and gives you the opportunity to work alongside a research mentor. Often students are paid or receive a stipend when involved in structured, mentored summer or academic year research experiences. Generally, summer research opportunities take place for a period of 8-12 weeks during summer, but there are also opportunities for on-campus research throughout the academic year.
UROC Chalk Talk
Still unsure about undergraduate research or how to get started? Chalk Talk can help! UROC Ambassadors Danielle and Jada put together some videos to help answer some of your questions.