Undergraduate Research

Completing a research project can be one the most memorable highlights of your Drake education. It means the opportunity not only to receive a solid grounding in your field, but also to help create new knowledge in that field.

An Exceptional University for Students Interested in Research

Across our campus, undergraduate students are working closely with faculty advisers on impressive independent research projects. Several highlights of the undergraduate research experience set Drake apart:

You can begin research projects as early as your first year.

• Faculty are eager to support student research and will offer you extensive guidance through mentor-apprentice partnerships.
• You can receive funding for research projects both through faculty grants and through Summer Research Fellowships.
• As a student researcher, you can showcase your work at the Drake University Conference on Undergraduate Research in the Sciences (DUCURS), a highlight of the academic year.
• Many students publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals and present their work at local, regional, and national conferences.

The Benefits of Doing Research

Taking part in research yields impressive advantages of two kinds. First, it’s a chance to see what research is really like—and whether it’s for you. Second, it can be an impressive addition to your transcript or resume, whether your goal is admission to an excellent graduate or professional school or landing a great first job.

It’s important to understand that research is not just for science students. Projects can take many forms, from experiments in psychology to marketing studies, to scholarly projects in literature or history.

Options for Projects Beyond Campus

In addition to opportunities on campus, you can also take part in off-campus research programs. Drake students have completed internships and fellowships through the NASA undergraduate research program, the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, and organizations focusing in specific fields of study, such as Beta Beta Beta, the national biological honor society.