Academics

Academic Resources

Research Opportunities

Vanderbilt’s arts and science students use advanced technologies that range from a state-of-the-art language laboratory to tissue culture facilities and mass spectrometers. Computer facilities include VUnet, the campuswide data network that connects all residence-hall rooms and provides access to the Internet. The Heard Library is among the nation’s top research facilities. Students have access to more than 3 million volumes, over 12,000 e-journals, hundreds of electronic databases, and a large collection of maps, sound recordings, CDs, and DVDs. An ever-increasing number of resources are available electronically.

Undergraduate Research

All undergraduates at Vanderbilt may pursue original research in a number of different formats, including:

Independent Study/ Reading, Directed Research, Directed/Independent Laboratory Research, and other 1:1 student-faculty tutorial arrangements

These curricular options are generally reserved for upperclass students. Interested students should consult the homepage of the department or program in which they wish to work for information on how to proceed.

Departmental Honors

Students in every academic area may work toward departmental honors, programs designed to encourage independent study. Results are presented internally, and are also frequently published or presented at professional meetings. Students generally begin departmental honors work in the junior year, but outstanding seniors are also considered. Interested students should consult the homepage of the department or program for the name of the Director of the Honors Program in that area.

Vanderbilt Undergraduate Summer Research Program

The goal of the VUSRP is to enhance joint student-faculty research efforts. The major component of the program is the scholarly work done by a student in collaboration with a full-time faculty member. Eligible students compete for summer research stipends which will support them during the annual ten-week summer program. For information on how to apply, consult the homepage of the VUSRP at vusrp.vanderbilt.edu