The Honors College has a long history of supporting the research endeavors of undergraduate students and their mentors. Beginning in summer 2021 the award values associated with three of its grant programs will increase.  

"Honors research projects may include an abundance of expenses, and those expenses have continued to rise over the years," said Jennie Popp, associate dean of the Honors College. "Even for those students whose projects don't have specific research expenses, the time commitment required by their research can be the equivalent of a part-time job."

Honors College funding helps make research financially viable for many honors students by helping cover research expenses and supporting students financially for the time they commit to their projects. 

Further, honors student research would not be possible without the support of scores of university faculty. Honors College funding for faculty, through mentor stipends and the Faculty Equipment and Technology Grant, supports the research endeavors of all undergraduate students in tangible ways.

The award level changes associated with three Honors College grant programs are as follows:

Honors College Research Grant — student stipends will increase from $1,250 to $2,000 per funded term for up to two terms. One-time mentor funds will increase from $1,000 to $1,500. Proposals are accepted three times per year in fall, spring and summer. 

Research Team Grant — student stipends will increase from $750 to $1,000 per term for up to two terms. Faculty awards will increase from $750 to $1000 per student for two to four students. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis. 

Faculty Equipment and Technology Grant — faculty awards will increase from $5,000 to up to $7,500. Proposals are accepted in September.

In addition, the Honors College will raise its contribution to honors student and mentor's SURF funding from the state so that SURF awards continue to match the value of the Honors College Research Grant.

Any student with an existing research grant will receive the increased amount starting with funds posted in Summer 2021. Mentors will receive the increased mentor stipend starting with new grants awarded in summer 2021.