One path for conducting research for academic credit is through Research Independent Study. Courses entitled Research Independent Study are individual research courses in a field of special interest under the supervision of a faculty member. The central goal is a substantive paper or written report containing significant analysis and interpretation of a previously approved topic. Such research independent study courses bear a Research (R) code and satisfy general education research requirements.
Students should seek advice on specific departmental web sites to learn about the research interests of faculty members. Students should initiate appointments and conversations to convey their interest in the discipline or sub-discipline of their choosing. When a faculty member agrees to guide the student in a research project, they should both discuss the objectives of the research, the time commitment the student will make (generally 10–15 hours per week), and what the specific requirements for the final product will be. Departments often require a written project proposal.
Funding A Research Project
URS offers grants of up to $400 for students to utilize during their Research Independent Study courses. These grants can cover things like particpant incntives, and other resources. URS funds may not be used to purchase equipment that will be retained as a personal item or part of the lab at the end of the project. This includes software, books, computer equipment, and cameras.
To learn more about Trinity policies for Research Independent Study courses, click here.