The Council on Undergraduate Research defines undergraduate research as “an inquiry or investigation conducted by an undergraduate student that makes an original intellectual or creative contribution to the discipline.” Undergraduate research allows you to work closely with a mentor and explore a topic in greater depth, producing new knowledge, scholarship, or creative work. Through these transformative experiences, you will receive personal attention from Penn State Altoona faculty, the opportunity to team with fellow students on short or long-term projects, and the chance to interact with faculty at other campuses, visiting scholars, and graduate/postdoctoral students. At other institutions of higher education, such personal mentoring from faculty is usually only available to senior graduate students; at Penn State Altoona, it is the norm.

Undergraduate Research at Penn State Altoona

  • Approximately 100 students obtain research or independent-study credits annually
  • Approximately 70 students receive stipends (up to $2500) annually for their research efforts
  • Penn State Altoona provides over $120,000 annually for student stipends and wages, with another $35,000 provided by industry partners
  • In addition to stipends, Penn State Altoona has budgeted $50,000 in support of students traveling on research and creative activity-related trips
  • With over $2 million in active external grants, many Penn State Altoona faculty are able to independently support students for multiple years; many such students even begin their research experience in their first year.

Podcast: From Concept to Creation: Uncovering the Making of Scholarly and Creative Accomplishments

From Concept to Creation is dedicated to uncovering the process of research. It isn’t all about the final product. It’s also the journey. Join co-hosts Jen Jarson and Kate Morgan to hear researchers from across subject areas and experience levels share their challenges and roadblocks as well as their a-ha moments and personal growth.

In this episode, Jen and Kate speak with Austin Murray, a recent Penn State Altoona graduate, about how his undergraduate research experience helped advance him on his career path.