Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Graduate College-Sponsored
Undergraduate Research Opportunities Consortium (UROC)

The Graduate College offers a wide-range of undergraduate research opportunities to help students prepare for the rigors of graduate school. These year-round (for UA students only) or summer-only (open to UA and non-UA students) paid research experiences will connect you to meaningful research projects, faculty mentors and a cohort of like-minded students whose goal is to pursue master’s and Ph.D.s.  Additionally, you will receive intensive, personalized preparation for the graduate admission process including workshops to prepare for the GRE.  These research programs culminate in an annual research conference.

In the summer of 2012, 107 students participated in this program, representing UA and other universities around the country. Students also came to UROC from top universities in Mexico and from fields as diverse as optical sciences, engineering, social sciences, biomedical sciences, public health, and education. All students were supported by federal grants or by their own universities.

While each of the programs has a unique focus, there are certain benefits that are common to all:

• a research project
• a faculty mentor
• workshops / preparation for the graduate application process
• speaker series 
• social opportunities and a support network
• financial support (pay, stipends) ranging from $3000-$4500
• on campus housing available 
• research conference & closing ceremony

Students with all levels of research experience are encouraged to apply, including students who have had no previous research experience.

This consortium of federally- and institutionally-funded research programs is designed to increase the number of first generation-college, low income and underrepresented students who are interested in graduate school.

 Summer Research Institute (open to UA and non-UA students)