At Oxy, students don’t wait until they graduate to make original intellectual and creative contributions to their disciplines.
Whether it’s testing a scientific hypothesis, composing a new piece of music or observing human subjects, a hallmark of the Oxy experience is opportunities for students to engage in research—often at a level typically reserved for graduate students. Undergraduate research lets you do a deep dive into a topic that fascinates you, collaborate directly with a faculty mentor and develop skills that will prepare you for graduate or professional work. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to do research, whether on campus, in the diverse settings of Los Angeles or around the world.
Oxy’s Undergraduate Research Center (URC) provides resources for creative endeavors and original projects on- and off-campus, in all disciplines. You may apply to conduct research of your own design, or join a faculty research team through URC’s annual Summer Research Program. More than 100 students participate each year, working with faculty mentors on disciplines ranging from chemistry to economics, psychology, music, and urban and environmental policy.
Many Oxy students conduct research as part of their senior comps project, and the Library provided knowledgeable staff and cutting-edge technological resources. Our Genomics Center is a collaborative hub for studying DNA, facilitating professional research and training Oxy students in cutting-edge genomic techniques, equipment and analysis. You’ll also have access to a range of academic support services. Finally, whether the topic is research, career options or life itself, meaningful interaction between students and professors is an important part of the Oxy experience. Learn more about faculty mentorship at Oxy.
