Undergraduate Research Center

Undergraduate Research Center (URC) Giving Page

At Middle Tennessee State University, undergraduate research is more than just projects, it’s a life-changing experience. Through the Undergraduate Research Center (URC), students are empowered to partner with faculty mentors and explore bold ideas, solve real-world problems, and connect classroom learning to professional practice. Whether it’s in a science lab, an artist’s studio, or a community initiative, research and creative activity prepare students to lead, innovate, and thrive.

The URC’s mission is rooted in nurturing a culture of research and creative activity through student-centered learning, excellence, and collaboration. But we can’t do it alone. Your support ensures that MTSU students continue to have access to transformative experiences that prepare them not just for careers but for lives of purpose, impact, and leadership.

Help us empower the next generation of researchers.
Give today. Invest in tomorrow.

GIVE Today!

Our Students

Students who participate in undergraduate research consistently report stronger critical thinking skills, greater confidence, and higher post-graduation success.

With every research question asked, every presentation, and every publication, these students are not just learning—they’re becoming leaders in their fields.

By giving to the URC, you’re directly investing in hands-on learning experiences that prepare our students to lead, discover, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

Conference and Presentation Opportunities

The URC actively supports students in showcasing their research at prestigious conferences, fostering academic growth, and networking with local, national, and international audiences.

Our Impact

Your donation to the URC directly fuels:
Research Grants (URECA Awards): Financial support for students to launch independent research or creative projects under the guidance of dedicated faculty mentors.
Equipment and Materials: Essential supplies that bring ideas to life, from lab tools and software to art supplies and archival access.
Conference Travel and Presentation Opportunities: Funding that allows students to share their work at local, national, and international venues—broadening their horizons and building professional networks.
Undergraduate Research Student Organization (SOAR): Your contributions will help build and enrich our Undergraduate Research Community – SOAR (Student Organization for the Advancement of Research).

Ways to Give

The Undergraduate Research Center (URC) connects a dedicated community of supporters with meaningful opportunities to shape the future of undergraduate research. Your generosity empowers our students to thrive—fueling discovery, innovation, and service that extends far beyond campus.

We rely on the kindness and commitment of donors like you to meet the evolving needs of our student researchers and create inclusive, dynamic, and enriching experiences. Thank you for helping us invest in the next generation of scholars and leaders.

Ready to make a difference?

GIVE Today!

Undergraduate research flourishes when alumni, faculty, staff, and community members come together in support of our mission.

One-time and recurring gifts provide vital resources that sustain and expand the URC’s programs, helping students engage in high-impact research, present at conferences, and collaborate with faculty mentors. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a lasting difference.

As you celebrate your graduation, consider paying it forward by joining the Graduate Wall of Fame – a special tradition honoring those who give back to the center that helped shape their academic and personal journey.

Your contribution recognizes the support you received and ensures that future students will have the same opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

Graduates who join the Wall of Fame are proudly commemorated as lifelong members of the URC community.

The Senior Gift is a beloved MTSU tradition that encourages graduating seniors to give back in honor of their class year. Since its inception nearly two decades ago, more than 12,000 new graduates have contributed over $197,700 to areas they care about most on campus – including the URC.

Visit the Senior Gift page to make a gift!

Stay connected and continue your legacy by joining our growing alumni network. Your gift, whether in honor of a mentor, research experience or simply your time at MTSU, helps sustain the programs that enriched your undergraduate years. Together, we’re creating a culture of giving that inspires future scholars.

Partner with the URC to make a meaningful impact through corporate or foundation giving. We collaborate with organizations of all sizes to align philanthropic goals with student success and faculty-led research initiatives. Together, we can amplify our reach and drive innovation in Middle Tennessee and beyond!

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Jamie Burriss, URC Director at Jamie.Burriss@mtsu.edu