Undergraduate Research
In the College of Arts and Science, every student has access to world-class research opportunities. Our faculty enthusiastically include undergraduates in their work, whether in the lab, the field, or the library, and enjoy collaborating across disciplines and schools to create unique experiences for students. Many majors include a significant research requirement, while others make research an optional, but encouraged, part of the curriculum. As undergraduate students engage in research, they are surrounded by the extensive resources only a top-tier R1 university can provide.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH IN ACTION
Elayavalli Lab
Students in Assistant Professor of Physics Raghav (Rithya) Kunnawalkam Elayavalli's lab are not only conducting research on high-energy physics, but they are also developing the skills to communicate their progress, ask clarifying questions, and collaborate with team members.
Immersion: Exhibiting Historical Art
In HART3810W, an advanced writing seminar course, students have an immersive opportunity to explore the past, present, and future of art through hands-on experiences. Students conducted round-table class discussions, participated in research and writing workshops, listened to guest speakers, and presented at the Stieglitz Collection at Fisk University's Carl Van Vecthen Art Gallery.
2025 Keegan Fellows
This prestigious fellowship empowers students to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, pursue bold ideas, and engage in hands-on learning that shapes their future as global citizens and leaders. Through independent exploration and cross-cultural engagement, fellows can develop the adaptability, resilience, and leadership skills necessary to drive meaningful impact in an interconnected world.
Using AI to Inspire Change
More than 40 students with majors tied to economics, history, engineering, computer science, music performance, math, and more created the short film, which combines generative AI animation and live action. It premiered at the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Research Opportunities
A&S undergraduates can access research opportunities through a number of channels. In addition to approaching faculty on their own, students can choose from a variety of college- and university-sponsored programs, many of which come with financial support. Below are some of the most common paths undergraduates take to complete their research experiences.
Departmental Honors
Every A&S department has an honors program that centers on independent learning and research. Requirements for honors study vary by department. Students who are interested in departmental honors should visit the relevant department’s website or contact the department’s Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Immersion
Immersion at A&S happens as part of Immersion Vanderbilt, a university-wide program that provides students with the opportunity to pursue their passions and cultivate their intellectual interests through experiential learning. The program takes place both in and beyond the classroom and culminates in the creation of a final project. The project must focus on one of four pathways, with Research being one of the options.
Maximizing Access to Research Centers (MARC)
The Vanderbilt MARC Scholars Program promotes broad participation in biomedical research by preparing undergraduate students for highly selective Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. biomedical training programs. To learn more, visit the Biological Sciences MARC page.
Vanderbilt Undergraduate Summer Research Program
VUSRP provides students with the opportunity to complete ten weeks of full-time summer research under the mentorship of a Vanderbilt faculty member. This is a competitive program, with accepted students receiving a $5,000 stipend and the opportunity to present their research at the Vanderbilt Undergraduate Research Fair.
The Wond’ry
The Wond’ry is Vanderbilt’s center for innovation and design. Students may use The Wond’ry as a resource to support individual research activities, or they may participate in one of the center’s unique and engaging co-curricular programs, such as the Coffee Equity Lab. With specializations in design thinking and social innovation, The Wond’ry is a particularly good choice for students interested in putting their research to work in the real world or for social good.