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Research

One of the goals at Western Michigan University is to be a "Student-Centered, Research University." To help achieve this goal we involve our students in the research and creative activities of the faculty. There are a number of programs that encourage students to participate in research and creative activities. Please consult your department chairs and faculty for additional opportunities to work with the faculty. Many departments offer undergraduate research courses. See the Undergraduate Research Awards Program for examples of some of the student projects in the left column.

The College of Arts & Sciences is placing increasing emphasis on the involvement of undergraduate students in research. The College's Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Awards began in the winter of 1997. This program was initiated by the College, to encourage undergraduates to work with faculty on research or creative activities. The College plans to fund up to 60 awards this year; approved students receive $500 as a stipend or as an expense account toward their research project. The joint student/faculty projects represent the diversity of scholarly activity in the College. Projects have ranged from English Editorial Assistants to molecular biology research.

This program complements a variety of other undergraduate research programs in the College that are providing increasing numbers of our undergraduate majors access to research and experiential opportunities. Currently around 150 undergraduates are engaged in a research experience each semester. Research fellowships are also available in conjunction with the Lee Honors College, Binder Park Zoo, Bronson and Borgess Hospitals and the DNR. Each year undergraduate researchers from Biological Sciences and Chemistry present their work at the National Undergraduate Research Conference. A number of non-science departments also have student internships and research projects.