Program Overview

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP)

The Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) is a one-year program that offers first- and second-year students the chance to participate in the research and creative process with faculty. First year transfer students may apply and are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Program Structure

• The program consists of two semesters:
  • Fall Semester: Students attend a one-unit research seminar (UNIV 296) to learn about research methods, research ethics, and research-focused field trips.
  • Spring Semester: Students conduct research or creative work with a faculty member and present their research at the CSULB Undergraduate Research Symposium.

Choosing a Research Project

• Once students have been admitted and have met with a UROP Advisor, they begin searching for a research project among UROP's list of faculty research sponsors and projects.
• Students are encouraged to look broadly for projects and keep an open mind when reviewing project listings.

Funding

• Funding for students who participate in UROP consists of $17.25-$17.50 per hour.

Faculty Recruitment

• The UROP program invites faculty members to join and involve students in their research, scholarly, or creative activities.
• Research sponsors can be any tenure track or tenured faculty member or full-time lecturer with an active research, scholarly, or creative agenda.
• Faculty may have up to a total of three UROP research assistants and earn up to $1500 in professional development funds.

Benefits for Faculty

• The UROP program provides faculty with research assistants to support their research, scholarly, and creative work.
• Faculty who participate in the program have the opportunity to introduce and recruit new students to their field or area of research.

Testimonials

• Former UROP faculty sponsors have praised the program, stating that it gives students a wonderful opportunity to get involved in all aspects of research and that the students are dedicated and committed to their research projects.
• Faculty have also found working with UROP students to be invigorating, as it allows them to explain their work to those new to the field and receive help with data collection and analysis.