Undergraduate Research

Launch

Undergraduate research can propel you to new professional and postgraduate horizons. Student research builds a particular area of expertise while also cultivating highly-valued skills such as effective communication, collaboration and project management. Our graduates build on their research experiences to launch impactful careers in public service, industry, academia, and the arts. 

A student presents in a classroom.

Each spring graduating Obies present their research findings as part of Oberlin’s Senior Symposium.

Photo credit: John Seyfried

Launch Your Future with Oberlin Research

Undergraduate research at Oberlin equips you with a powerful foundation to pursue ambitious postgraduate and professional goals. By your fourth year, your research experience becomes a key asset, positioning you as a strong candidate for graduate programs, prestigious fellowships, and competitive research positions. With the support of dedicated campus offices, Oberlin students launch into careers that make a meaningful impact in academia, industry, public service, and the arts.

Leverage Campus Resources for Professional Development

As a rising senior, you may decide to pursue research opportunities off-campus. If you do, consider connecting with Oberlin’s Career Exploration and Development (CED). The CED helps students develop career strategies, explore internships, and expand their professional network. CED's Internship+ program offers third-year students up to $5,000 for summer research and other opportunities. 

Pursue Research Off-Campus

Expand your research horizons with off-campus programs like Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs), where you can work alongside peers at leading institutions nationwide. These experiences help build your professional connections and expose you to diverse research environments, further preparing you for advanced study and professional research.

  •  

[Off-campus research] has been an amazing opportunity to learn more from this research field and consider doing this type of research in the future as a PhD student.

Abby Tejera ‘25

  • Pursue Fellowships and Awards

    Your undergraduate research experience can play a critical role in a successful fellowship application. Oberlin’s Office of Fellowships and Awards supports students and alumni in pursuing nationally competitive fellowships. These programs, ranging from research and artistic grants to opportunities for international study, provide funding and support to help you take the next steps toward your personal and professional goals. With a record of placing graduates in prestigious fellowships, Oberlin’s team guides you in crafting successful applications for programs that align with your aspirations. 

    Oberlin’s robust research programs, coupled with tailored career support, create a launchpad for you to make a lasting impact in your field. Embrace these opportunities to take your undergraduate research further, setting you on a path to success in graduate school, professional research, and beyond.

    Share your work; launch your career: 

  • Learn more about Oberlin’s Research Symposium
  • Learn more about the Senior Launch Program
  • Explore Oberlin’s Career Development Center