U of C has many opportunities for students who wish to conduct research. Many of the different schools and faculties at the university have distinct pathways for undergraduate research, with access to certain programs and awards being dependent on a student's major and what discipline their research falls under. Here are just some of the prominent experiential learning in each academic sector that students might want to learn more about.
For students who wish to research topics under the Faculty of Arts, there are a wide range of opportunities. Anthropology and Archeology majors who want a more hands-on experience might plan to participate in field schools, where students learn what it's like to research in the field. The extensive data bases and archives and journals accessible through the university also allows for students to generate detailed archival and source-based research projects. Arts students might be interested in applying for the SSHRC Undergraduate Student Research Award, (URSA) that funds supervised research in the areas of Social Sciences or Humanities.
Through the university students in the Faculty of Science can participate in research both inside and outside the lab. Field Schools are also available to students studying subjects such as Earth Science or Environmental Science where students develop their skills in data collection, analysis and interpretation. One of the prominent ones that can be awarded is the NSERC USRA. undergraduates who wish to investigate topics in natural science through their research.
For engineering students the Schulich Undergraduate Research Program (URP) and the Biomedical Engineering Undergraduate Research Program (BURP) provide opportunities for undergraduates to research under a faculty member's supervision. These experiences are funded through awards such as NSERC or the Schulich 50:50 Award, given to students conducting research in the Shuulich Laboratories.
For students who wish to conduct research in topics such as health and medical science a variety of undergraduate summer studentships are offered through the university. This includes the O’Brien Centre Summer Studentships (OCSS) for research projects, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI) Summer Studentships and the Libin Cardiovascular Institute (LCI) Studentships.
These are just a few of the possible paths to research available to undergraduates at the U of C. Funding, mentorship and research experiences can come from a multitude of sources, such as clubs, student networks or through community organizations. Those who keep their ears to the ground and remain curious will likely find the opportunities they seek.
