Frequently Asked Questions

Benefits of Undergraduate Research

• Enhances student learning through mentoring relationships with faculty
• Increases retention and graduation in academic programs
• Increases enrollment in graduate education and provides effective career preparation
• Develops critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and intellectual independence
• Develops an understanding of research methodology
• Promotes an innovation-oriented culture
• Develops competencies that speak to career-readiness

• What does the IDEA Center do?

  We promote undergraduate research and creative expression by connecting motivated undergraduates with faculty mentors to help facilitate a research/creative project. We also supervise the RES 3399 and 4399 courses.

• Which majors can participate?

  We are open to helping undergraduate students from all majors across campus. We can help you connect with a mentor or research program in your field or in a field related to the topic you have chosen for your project. 

  Note: some majors, like many in the College of Health Professions, have rigorous and defined sequences that cannot be altered to facilitate a research project. If you're in such a major, it's best to speak with your academic advisor about Bobcat IDEA.

• What are some examples of creative expression projects?

  Great question! Creative projects can take almost any shape or form, and if you decide to do one you will work with your mentor to come up with a project that is both substantial and challenging, but also realistically feasible to complete within one semester. Some examples include:

  • A draft of a one-act play or partial full-length play or screenplay
  • A collection of poems 
  • A collection of short stories or a novella
  • A short-form film or documentary
  • A collection of visual art pieces
  • A collection of musical compositions or recordings
  • A performance art or creative movement/dance piece
  • A series of short videos exploring a topic

  As each project will have different needs, the specifics will be tailored to the individual student's goals and abilities. 

• Can I participate in both Honors College and IDEA?

  Yes! Keep scrolling!

• Do the courses RES 3399 and 4399 count toward my degree?

  They can, but it will depend on the specific degree plan. Please make an appointment with Dr. White to find out how our classes can fit in your degree. 

• Will you provide a mentor for me?

  Yes! We will assist you in finding a mentor for your project if you haven't already found one. 

• If I need to stop or pause my research, is that ok?

  Yes, you are under no obligation to complete the process. You can skip a semester between RES 3399 and 4399 if you wish.

  Note: if you are enrolled in RES 3399 or 4399, you will still be subject to drop dates and grades as normal. Please speak with your mentor and/or academic advisor before dropping a course to make sure you understand any ramifications.