Summer Research Programs

Summer Undergraduate Research programs are referred to with a variety of titles. These include Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP), Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE), Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), and Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). All of these refer to the same type of program, a summer research position in which students usually receive a stipend (and sometimes additional funding such as travel and housing expenses) for performing research.

These programs allow students to participate in a research lab, work with the faculty, live in the community, and can help a student decide if this particular program is a suitable graduate school for them or not. If the student decides to apply to the graduate program (or professional program, if applicable) they can usually get a letter of recommendation from their summer research mentor. This personal contact can certainly be helpful in gaining acceptance to the program.

Below is a listing of all the summer undergraduate research programs about which the Undergraduate Advising Office has received announcements.

**NOTE: There may be other eligibility requirements for the programs in addition to the eligibility requirements listed below.

Finding a program: The summer research programs vary widely in the content and scope of what they cover, as well as the areas of concentration, ranging from semiconductors and photolithography to marine science research. Students should look through the listing below to find a program that is similar to their research interests.

You may also find an extensive listing of summer research programs at the following websites:

Applying to a program: Application requirements also vary widely from program to program. Usually the more prestigious programs will have higher requirements. Many programs require applicants to submit copies of their transcripts, and most also want one or two letters of recommendation from faculty. Some want applicants to provide a short essay. Be sure to check the details of each program for specific requirements!

Eligibility: Some programs are aimed at students with experience in a specific area, others are open to students with no research experience. Many are limited to U.S. citizens or permanent residents (usually funded by the NSF), but some are open to international students. Some will have higher GPA requirements and increased course requirements. Some are targeted at students who are between their junior and senior years while participating in the program, while others are open to sophomores as well. Once again, be sure to check the details of each program for specific requirements!

Stipends: These vary from program to program, usually in the range of $3,000 to $5,500 for the summer. Most programs offer free or reduced-cost housing, some offer health insurance for the summer, and many offer travel allowances.