Undergraduate Research Graduation Distinction

Graduate with Research Distinction!

The Undergraduate Research Center (URC) is proud to announce the new Undergraduate Research Graduation Distinction recognition. 

As stated in the Quest for Student Success 2025, MTSU is committed to graduating students "who are prepared to thrive professionally, committed to critical inquiry and life-long learning, and engaged as civically, globally responsible citizens."  In order to achieve this goal, the University seeks to provide each student with a distinctive learning experience that lays the foundation for his or her own student success, life-long learning, and civic engagement.

The Undergraduate Research Center (URC) aligns with this strategic path by providing students with opportunities to engage in mentored research during which faculty lead, guide, and engage students in intellectual pursuits and recognizing that commitment to an enriched faculty experience lies at the core of an enriched student experience. Our goal is to promote mentored research at the undergraduate level, and provide university support for students  who engage in critical inquiry and life-long learning.  This distinction recognizes students who holistically committed to the pursuit of undergraduate research and creative activity. 

To achieve this designation, students must meet the proposed criteria and submit an application to receive the designation.  

 

Levels of RecognitionScholar Medallion

Distinction in Undergraduate Research
Students receive a dark blue, light blue, and white cord.

Scholar Distinction in Undergraduate Research
Students receive a dark blue, light blue, and white cord AND a SCHOLAR medallion.

Distinction Criteria

Distinction in Undergraduate Research
To apply for the Distinction in Undergraduate Research you must fulfill all the following requirements:

  1. Successful completion of an Assistant level URECA project - 50 hours of research or more.
  2. Poster presentation or creative performance at one of the URC’s signature events:  Fall Open House, Scholars Week or Summer Research Celebration.
  3. Active participation for at least one academic year in the Student Organization for the Advancement of Research (SOAR). 
  4. Endorsement from URECA faculty mentor.

Scholar Distinction in Undergraduate Research
To apply for the Scholar Distinction in Undergraduate Research you must fulfill all the following requirements:

  1. Successful completion of a Scholar level URECA project - 100 hours of research or more.
  2. Poster presentation or creative performance at one of the URC’s signature events:  Fall Open House, Scholars Week or Summer Research Celebration.
  3. Active participation for at least one academic year in the Student Organization for the Advancement of Research (SOAR). 
  4. Poster or Presentation at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research or published in a peer-reviewed academic journal.
  5. Endorsement from one or more URECA faculty mentor(s).

Apply Here