Undergraduate Research Opportunities

The University of Florida and the College of Journalism and Communications offer numerous opportunities for undergraduates to pursue research under the direction of a faculty member. These intensive research opportunities personalize the academic experience and challenge students to strengthen their writing and analytical skills. In addition, having research experience is vital for admission to most graduate and/or professional schools. For more information, see www.honors.ufl.edu/academics/research/.

Why become an Undergraduate Research Assistant?

Experience as a Research Assistant (RA) helps you develop valuable skills in research methodology, critical thinking, and communication, which are essential for careers in journalism and communications. Plus, you’ll gain hands-on experience that can be a significant advantage in both graduate studies and a professional career in the field.

1. Mentorship: You’ll receive guidance and mentorship from experienced researchers, which can be invaluable for your academic and professional growth.
2. Skill Development: You’ll develop valuable skills such as data collection, analysis, critical thinking, and academic writing.
3. Hands-on Experience: It provides practical experience in your field of study, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
4. Contribution to Knowledge: Being part of a research team allows you to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in your field.
5. Networking: Working closely with professors and other researchers helps you build a professional network, which can be advantageous for future career and academic opportunities.
6. Enhanced Resume: Research experience significantly enhances your resume, distinguishing you from other candidates in the eyes of potential employers or graduate programs.

RA Duties and Responsibilities

As an undergraduate research assistant at the CJC, your responsibilities might include:

• Literature reviews: Summarizing existing research on topics related to journalism and communications to provide context for new studies.
• Conducting interviews and surveys: Gathering primary and secondary data from various sources, including individuals, organizations, and events.
• Analyzing media content: Reviewing and coding articles, broadcasts, social media posts, and other media for research purposes.
• Assisting with writing and editing: Helping to draft research papers, articles, and reports, as well as preparing presentations for conferences or classes.
• Managing data: Organizing and maintaining databases of research materials, ensuring data accuracy and integrity.
• Administrative support: Scheduling interviews, managing project timelines, and coordinating with other team members.

Tasks and responsibilities are not limited to the above list and are determined by the PI.

CJC RA Compensation

Volunteer: Volunteer hours are determined and tracked by the Faculty member/Primary Investigator (PI).

Course Credit: Independent Study Credit Requests are managed by each department at the CJC. The student and faculty member should contact their chair for their department’s form. 

Funding: Funding is determined by the PI.

Current CJC Research Opportunities

College faculty are continually offering research opportunities for undergraduate students. To see a list of current opportunities, click here.

UF Center for Undergraduate Research Programs

The Center for Undergraduate Research offers several research programs to best suit the needs of all students. Click through the various programs below to learn more and find a research program for you.

UF Research Database

Explore the research by topic to find the right research opportunity for you.

UF University Scholars Program

The University Scholars Program is designed to introduce undergraduate students at the University of Florida to the exciting world of academic research. Teamed with a faculty member, students pick their topic, initiate research during the summer, and continue investigating throughout the following academic year. Scholars receive a $1,750 stipend to support their research efforts and have the opportunity to publish their research in UF’s online Journal of Undergraduate Research. The faculty mentor will receive a $500 stipend to use as needed to support the research of the student. Details and deadlines can be found here.

McNair Scholars Program

The McNair Scholars Program is designed for undergraduate students who are committed to advancing their education through research and scholarship with the goal of earning a PhD or another research doctorate. Our program provides training, mentorship, resources, and opportunities to help first-generation and income-eligible students prepare for the challenges and rewards of graduate education. 

National Science Foundation REU Program

NSF lists national research opportunities for undergraduates. Project details and contacts are provided on their website.

ADV 4910, JOU 4910, PUR 4910 and TEL 4910 courses allow undergraduates to work with a professor who may need an assistant for their current research project.  This mentored but self-directed work enables students to explore an issue of interest to them and to communicate their results to others. Depending on the topic, projects may involve inquiry, design, investigation, scholarship, discovery, or application. If you’re not sure whom you’d like to work with, try asking in your department about available research positions with faculty.