Undergraduate Research

The College of Education encourages undergraduate students to pursue their scholarly curiosity and dive deeper into different fields of study through undergraduate research opportunities.  

Why Participate in Undergraduate Research?

  • Hands-On Experience: Improve your critical thinking while gaining practical and academic skills that extend beyond the classroom.
  • Mentorship: You’ll work closely with faculty members who are experts in their fields, who guiding and supporting you in your research.
  • Advocacy: By contributing to knowledge, you’ll have a chance to make real impact on children, families, communities and schools. 

Funding Opportunities

College of Education 

The Summer Undergraduate Research Initiative allows education students to propose and pursue research projects during the summer months. Undergraduate research participants receive a stipend of $15/hour, with the possibility of earning credit for their major. Applications are due at the beginning of May.

University-Wide 

The Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry (URCI) provides undergraduate students of all disciplines research programs, opportunities and events throughout the year. 

  • The Research Impact Award is offered in the spring to sophomore, junior and senior TU students.  It is a $1,000 award to do research with a Towson faculty member in the Spring semester. Application deadline is the second Tuesday of October.
  • TIGURS is offered in the summer to rising sophomores and incoming transfers. It is designed for students new to research who will be matched to mentors for six-weeks in June and July. Participants receive summer housing, meals and a $1,500 stipend. Application deadline is the second Friday of March.
  • Advanced Research Grants are offered in the summer to rising juniors and seniors. It is a $5,000 award to conduct research with a TU faculty member for 12 weeks. Applications are due the Tuesday after spring break. 
  • Travel Awards of up to $750 are available to students throughout the year to attend a professional meeting or conference to present the results of their research work. The funds can be used for registration fees, transportation, lodging and meals.

Get Started with Undergraduate Research

TU offers several events where you can learn more about undergraduate research and connect with student participants who can give insight from their experiences.

College of Education students can contact the college’s Office of Research and Evaluation any time to ask questions and discuss anything related to undergraduate research, .