Joining a research lab or working as a research assistant is a terrific opportunity for students to understand how cutting-edge research works, gain critical experience and technical skills, build their resumes, connect with professors, and test their enthusiasm for a research career.
Honors students can apply to earn HON 401 credits for research experiences at PSU or at another institution. There are different types of research, all of which are eligible for Honors credit: natural science labs, clinical research, social science projects, creative projects, and reading and conference, a typical humanities model.
Completing research for credit is an optional part of the third year Honors curriculum, not a requirement. In addition to taking the required four-credit HON 407 Seminar, students can choose to fulfill the remaining 8 credits of Honors junior requirements by completing HON 401 Research credits, HON 404 Internship credits, additional HON 407 seminars, or by studying abroad. Some students may choose to carry out a research experience and not earn academic credits for it.
Research Approval and Registration Process
All students must apply for Honors College approval of their research proposal through the online application and receive approval to register prior to the start of the quarter.
After approval, students enroll in HON 401 research credits by completing an electronic By-Arrangement form, which will create the class. Students conducting research with a PSU professor will list that person as the instructor of record, and receive a grade from that professor at the end of the quarter. Students conducting research off campus will list Honors Director Brenda Glascott as the instructor of record on the By-Arrangement form. To receive credit for the research and a passing grade, students must submit a reflection essay about their research experience at the end of the quarter. A brief syllabus will be provided.
For questions contact Honors Internship & Research Coordinator Jennifer Hoskins.
To determine how your research plan will help you complete your degree requirements please contact Honors Advisor Brianna Avery.