Research Elective Course Description

Judy Savageau, MPH  judith.savageau@umassmed.edu

Months available depends on the availablity of a student's mentor; students must complete project by the end of March of their graduating year.  

This is a 2-Month minimum elective

* Students must complete a one-page Senior Scholars application and have their project approved BEFORE beginning their research.

* An Elective Form MUST be completed/approved for each month student is applying to the program.

* Offered to UMass Students Only

• Assist in career development; 
• Offer a basis for critical interpretation of published literature; 
• Provide an opportunity  performing high quality clinical, epidemiologic or basic science research; and 
• Give students a firsthand view of scientific principles and their application in medicine. 

Both clinical and basic science faculty from all UMass Chan departments have embraced the program supporting students, designing projects and serving as mentors.  As a result, the diversity of project opportunities is vast, ranging from molecular and cellular biology to international health initiatives and medical school advocacy. 

The Senior Scholars Program has grown steadily over the years with a full 20% - 25% of the senior class participating.  Beyond an opportunity to conduct high-level research under the guidance of a faculty member, students meet as a group two times during the year to openly discuss their work with other students and members of the Senior Scholars Committee.  In addition, each student prepares a poster for Sr. Scholars Day, a campus wide event that is attended by faculty, students, and community supporters. Many students have also presented their work at regional, national and international meetings, won national education awards and published in peer-reviewed journals. 

Note: * This is a Two Month minimum elective. Students must complete the one-page Senior Scholars application and have their project approved BEFORE beginning their research. An Elective Form MUST be completed/approved for each month student is applying to the program.
 
* Offered to UMass Students; projects must be completed by the end of March of the students graduating year. 

Successful completion of the Senior Scholars project satisfies the Capstone Scholarship & Discovery course project requirement.