Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity
At the heart of undergraduate research and experiential learning
Undergraduate research and creative activity is self-directed/designed academic work by an individual student or team of students that addresses a research question with the expectation of a scholarly or creative product intended for publication or presentation on or off-campus. UNC Asheville founded the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) more than 30 years ago, and celebrated the milestone by bringing more than 4,000 undergraduate research students to campus in 2016.
The Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Program (URCAP) offers hands-on experience in the field, guided by expert faculty who let students take the lead. More than 65 percent of UNC Asheville students complete original research in their field of study through the University’s nationally recognized Program (URCAP)—an opportunity most often found in graduate programs. UNC Asheville’s URCAP has been recognized in U.S. News and World Report’s national rankings as a “program of distinction.”
What is Undergraduate Research?
UNC Asheville is a hub for undergraduate research excellence: 49 students and alumni have been awarded prestigious Fulbright Scholarships, we pioneered the National Conference on Undergraduate Research and our Undergraduate Research Program is recognized as a “program of distinction” by the U.S. News and World Report. And while your research will be independent, we don’t expect you to do it alone: our faculty are eager and dedicated research mentors in a wide variety of fields.
Over 65% of students participate in our nationally recognized Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Program, leveraging faculty mentorship to conduct original, independent research. Students can secure year-long grant funding or seek out generous departmental opportunities like the McCullough Fellowship. Our campus upholds the tradition of hosting semesterly symposia to showcase student-led projects.
Imagination Meets Impact – Undergraduate Student Research Projects
The Original Minds Series
Witness how UNC Asheville students think critically with curiosity, approach challenges with courage and create impact with imagination through their academic work, creative projects, and our undergraduate research program.
The Journal of Undergraduate Research
One of the most important aspects of research is putting it to the test in the public sphere; publishing it for others to evaluate, critique and build upon. Our Journal of Undergraduate Research exhibits academic excellence and rigorous inquiry in broad topics, from the pitch of bird songs to Hopi prophecy to urban renewal to nanowire synthesis.
Intrigued? Read the latest issue to get a firsthand look at research on campus!
Learn More about the Journal of Undergraduate Research
How Can You Get Involved?
Gain hands-on field experience pursuing a question and path of study that you design. Join more than 65 percent of UNCA’s undergraduates conducting research in labs, forests, theaters, and more, both in North Carolina and around the world. Produce a presentation for our annual symposia on UNCA Undergraduate Research, Creativity, and Community Engagement.
UNC Asheville also provides ample grant opportunities to support your creative activities and research! Learn more about how to apply for undergraduate research grants.
Learn More about How You Can Participate
Room for Every Voice – The Benefits of Undergraduate Research
Engaging with salient questions as an undergraduate sets you up for long-term success, both as a researcher and as a lifelong learner. At UNC Asheville, undergraduate research involves close mentoring relationships between faculty and students—relationships that can form the basis of your academic and professional networks.
Beyond how you’ll personally benefit from research, though, is the impact you’ll have on fellow students, our community, and even the world. New research is invigorating and inspiring: it drives those who engage with it to ask more questions and make more discoveries. We can’t wait to see where you start.
Your Curiosity and Imagination are Valued at UNC Asheville
Pair creativity with persistence in your quest to uncover truths and share insights in a community that is constantly learning and growing. At UNC Asheville, you’ll find new understandings of the world, rich collaborative partnerships, and lifelong mentors who are invested in your flourishing.