An active part of learning in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering includes research.  Students are encouraged to think beyond the textbook and apply their knowledge to current projects.  Faculty members eagerly involve students in current research to expand a student's thought process and allow them to gain "hands-on" experience.  Students seeking a hand-on approach to learning should look no further than the University of Denver.  

Summer Undergraduate Research Experience

The University of Denver offers a summer undergraduate research experience for students seeking an opportunity to apply their creativity and technical knowledge to current or innovative projects.  During Summer 2010, 15 students in the School of Engineering and Computer Science participated in the program.  This opportunity typically lasts 2 months and includes a stipend for students and supervision by a faculty member.  To hear more about this opportunity from two student participants, click on this video.

PINS and Undergraduate Research

Students wishing to participate in faculty research projects during the school year may be eligible for participation in PINS (Partners in Scholarship) or Undergraduate Research Assistantships (URA's). PINS is a University-wide program in which a student performs research in conjunction with a faculty member.  URA's work directly with faculty, often for compensation, on current research efforts. Students can read about faculty research interests on the departments' website to identify a possible match. 

Such work enhances the student's ability to compete for scholarships, internships, entrance to graduate study and permanent employment. A limited number of these are available and are typically restricted to upper-division students with good academic backgrounds. An agreement with a specific faculty member is required and the URA is requested by, and granted to, the faculty member.