Summer Programs for Undergraduate Research (SPUR)

The UCLA Summer Programs for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) offer upper division undergraduate students with outstanding academic potential the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors on research projects. The programs are designed for students who wish to learn more about the graduate school experience and possibly pursue an academic career in teaching and research. Opportunities are available in virtually all academic fields (e.g., arts, humanities, social sciences, life sciences, health sciences, physical sciences, etc.).

Student participants in many SPUR programs will work with a faculty mentor with special expertise and interests matched, as closely as possible, to the student’s research interests and career goals. Students will either assist the faculty member in an ongoing research project or work collaboratively with the mentor in designing a new project of mutual interest.

Most SPUR programs feature seminars on:
•    writing and research skills
•    strategies for enhancing success in applying to graduate school
•    graduate school funding opportunities
•    opportunities for informal discussion with UCLA graduate students
•    academic career opportunities
•    cultural and educational activities

For more information, please visit the SPUR website.

Last updated
July 9, 2024