Undergraduate research

Undergraduate research is often described as the exploration of a specific research topic by an undergraduate student that seeks to make an original contribution to the discipline. It is a fairly recent concept in the academic community, with roots in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The creation of MIT's Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) in 1969 encouraged an explosion in popularity. Undergraduate research programs were fairly common by the 1990s, and are currently accessible in many countries. Students may work on their own, collaborate with faculty members and other students, or seek enrollment in a research program within their field. Both faculty members and students experience advantages and disadvantages when collaborating on research. Although historically centered in the sciences, undergraduate research is now conducted in most fields. The research approach and preparation will differ depending on the disciplinary field and the specific research focus. Undergraduate research is often required for acceptance into graduate and professional schools.