Undergraduate Research

Among the many academic experiences offered at Penn State Berks is the opportunity for students to conduct genuine research, either under the guidance of a faculty mentor or as a collaborator on a faculty member's research project. The faculty and staff at Penn State Berks are committed to making research a major component of the undergraduate educational experience. Research experience is exciting and is a great way to prepare for careers in a variety of fields.

Research Opportunities for Undergraduates

Working one-on-one with a faculty member or as part of a supervised research team, students are able to investigate important issues related to their academic interests. These projects are sometimes part of a course, for which students earn academic credits, or a student can serve as a wage assistant during the regular semester or summer. At the end of each semester, students have the opportunity to participate in the Undergraduate Research Conference sponsored by the Berks County Higher Education Council, where they present the results of their work.

The college provides funding and recognition programs that enhance research opportunities at the undergraduate level. These opportunities include: funding for undergraduate student research, support for undergraduate travel to attend professional meetings, an undergraduate research conference, summer research programs, and competitive undergraduate student research awards.

As a result of their research collaborations with faculty, students gain valuable experience to include in their resumes or graduate school applications, make professional contacts, and have even earned co-authorship on scholarly publications and conference presentations.

If you are interested in exploring your options, feel free to approach individual faculty members from the degree programs offered at Berks to discuss possible research opportunities.

For additional information on undergraduate research opportunities at Penn State Berks, contact Dr. Janelle Larson, Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, [email protected]. Additional information on undergraduate research opportunities at Penn State Berks is listed on individual degree program web pages.

 Undergraduate Research Travel Support Form for conference travel.

Why Should You Get Involved?

Through research you can:

  • Work with internationally known scholars
  • Develop a better understanding of current intellectual debates
  • Build experience that is valuable in business, education, and government-related careers
  • Get an early introduction to graduate-level study
  • Share in the excitement of discovering something new
  • Build a lasting relationship with a faculty member or research team
  • Learn more about the newest technologies