Prospective Freshman Researchers

The Freshman Research Scholars program at Oklahoma State University provides an opportunity for bright, ambitious students to extend their education beyond the classroom by engaging in cutting-edge research under the guidance of innovative faculty researchers.

OSU understands that students who graduate without research experience have not taken full advantage of all that a comprehensive research university has to offer, so OSU leads the way in supporting undergraduate research in all fields of study.

By elevating their education with real hands-on research experience students in FRS can distinguish themselves as leaders capable of contributing to the scholarly community in ways that coursework alone cannot.

Such discovery learning complements a well-rounded course load by providing the critical opportunity to apply fundamental skills.

Connections made through the Freshman Research Scholars Program often lead to rewarding long-term relationships with like-minded students and faculty.

To apply, log in to your completed OSU application and you'll see a section titled, "Consider Research." You'll find a link to apply for the Freshman Research Scholars Program. If the link does not appear, please contact the Scholar Development Office at schdev@okstate.edu or 405.744.7313 to request the link be sent directly to you.

The final deadline for applications is February 1.

What might the youngest student offer the most accomplished scientist?

Apply

Fall Semester

Learn basic research ethics and methodology in a college-specific orientation course taught by faculty researchers
Identify mentors in your field of study to guide you in the pursuit of your research interests

Spring Semester

Implement the research plan developed in the fall under the guidance of your mentor
Share the results of your research in a peer-level symposium at the end of the semester

Undergraduate Research Beyond the First Year

Participants in FRS are uniquely prepared to take advantage of OSU’s extensive research opportunities for undergraduates. Each year approximately forty of OSU’s most innovative scholars are awarded $4,500 Lew Wentz Research Grants to conduct projects of their own design.

Additionally, several other awards, such as the Niblack Research Scholars, are granted to students in selected fields of study, making OSU a vibrant research community for undergraduates.

Many of the students who participate in these programs continue to pursue successful careers in academia with placement in top research institutions, while others choose to take their experience into the private sector.