An innovative certification program that prepares undergraduate students for engineering research

Faculty at Jackson State University have developed an in-house certification program focused on introducing students to scientific and engineering research through hands-on learning experiences. This program is innovative as it is designed specifically for undergraduate research experiences and details a very structured and strategic plan to teach students effective research principles with a measureable incentive. This program is a result of positive results from initiatives funded through the National Science Foundation Nanotechnology for Undergraduate Education program. Students participate in learning characterization techniques, scientific principles and research methods associated with various characterization tools. The program is planned so that students will engage in an analysis technique for 3-6 week duration and then receive a certification for proficiency. Upon completion of the program students participate in mini-projects that are focused in the areas of materials research. The program is a hands-on introduction to materials research that spurs the growth of undergraduates who will continue in meaningful research projects, external internships and ultimately graduate school.