The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences sponsors an annual college-wide undergraduate research award, the CLAS University Scholars Program (USP). With the support of Beyond120 and the Center for Undergraduate research, the CLAS USP gives undergraduate students an opportunity to work one-on-one with a CLAS faculty member on a research project. Scholars can undertake a variety of research projects, including those that draw from laboratory-based research, archival research, field work, and other methodologies. Through this program, CLAS University Scholars will gain valuable insights into how to perform research and create knowledge. They will also have access to unique research-focused programming, networking opportunities, and professionalization resources.
Program Details and Responsibilities
- The CLAS University Scholars stipend of $1,750 will be disbursed in two installments ($750 in September and $1,000 in January).
- Faculty mentors will receive a $500 award to help defray the costs of student research.
- After accepting the award in the spring, students begin research the following fall and spring semesters. They must remain enrolled in the appropriate research courses (or Honors courses) for both semesters of research.
- CLAS University Scholars are expected to submit a research paper for possible publication by the end of the spring term of their award year.
- Students are required to attend Beyond120 experiential learning activities, either one major event or two minor activities.
- Students will also be required to present their research results at the University of Florida Undergraduate Research Symposium held in the spring.
Eligibility and Nominations
- While CLAS majors are given preference, CLAS minors and individuals with research housed within CLAS are also encouraged to apply.
- Students are responsible for finding a faculty mentor. Faculty mentors must be housed within CLAS.
- Students should submit their applications to their mentors or their department’s USP coordinators by February 6.
- Each department coordinator is responsible for reviewing and submitting their students’ applications to Beyond120 by February 13.
Application Process
Applicants must submit the following to their mentor or their department’s USP coordinator:
- An application cover sheet (PDF)
- A typed research proposal (a maximum of 500 words excluding references/bibliography).
- A letter of support from your faculty mentor.
Departmental USP coordinators should submit all application materials to Beyond120 by the February 13 deadline. Winning applicants will be notified in March.
CLAS Contact
Beyond120
beyond120@clas.ufl.edu