Genesis of an undergraduate research experience

This paper discusses the genesis and evolution of the undergraduate research experience at the Prescott campus of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU). ERAU-Prescott is an undergraduate campus with a strong aerospace engineering program. The faculty generally have very high teaching loads (12 hours) which makes it difficult to perform cutting edge research during the school year. Most faculty do the bulk of their research during the summer. The undergraduate research opportunity helps both the students and the faculty. The students get valuable research experience, apart-time job related to their field of study, and the opportunity to publish papers. The faculty gains in that they are able to get more research done. This paper briefly discussed the types of projects their undergraduate students have been involved in, the benefits for faculty, students and campus and also the process of creating this program.