Research Opportunities & Scholars Programs

Why engage in research?

An individualized method of learning
In-depth treatment of a topic of personal interest with input from a faculty expert
Helpful if applying for distinguished international fellowships
Important if going on to graduate studies in an analytical discipline
Research skills are useful for decision-making in the private and public sectors, and are required in academic positions

Independent Study

In-depth research on topic not covered or only introduced in other courses
Completion of 24 CUs
3.4 overall GPA
Proposal with approval of a faculty supervisor
Student and faculty establish research proposal, meet periodically as agreed/needed
Student submits final project in agreed upon form
Faculty member submits a grade after completion of the project
Independent Study webpage

Benjamin Franklin Scholars and Joseph Wharton Scholars Programs (BFS/JWS)

Emphasis on scholarly research and the liberal arts & sciences
Involve taking scholars seminars/courses both inside and outside of Wharton
JWS research requirement satisfied through taking JWS Senior Research Seminar (WH 399), or waived by significant senior research project for dual-degree programs or other research-intensive program
JWS requires simultaneous participation in BFS
Fall faculty research presentations (WH 399, Wednesdays 3:00-4:15 p.m., JMHH F38) are open to all Wharton students
BFS website
JWS webpage

Wharton Research Scholars Program (WRS)

More intensive 1-year research program with competitive selections
Faculty step forward with tentative proposals for challenging research projects
Students apply, specifically citing which projects are of interest
Selections of students and matches with faculty are performed and communicated
Students meet with their faculty mentors to refine the project proposals, which are defended in a January conference with other research scholars, faculty mentors, program directors and the undergraduate vice dean in attendance.
Research progress continues through the Spring culminating in final presentations given in April, with written submissions to follow.
Electronic journal assembled for public access
WRS webpage

University Scholars Program (US)

"…an unusual academic environment for intellectually dynamic students who have already demonstrated their commitment and dedication to research."
Involves:
- In-depth research
- Making an early start in graduate and professional courses
- Mentoring, research funding, and scholarly events
- Meeting weekly for lunches at which UScholars present and discuss their research.
US website

Research Grants – (CURF, WUG)

Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (CURF) - Mostly for summer projects & following academic year - Some for all undergraduates at Penn; some for select groups, for which Wharton students may qualify, e.g., by college, department, area of study, or other program participation. - CURF Grants website.
Wharton Undergraduate Division (WUG) - The Wharton Undergraduate Division offers two Summer research experiences:

Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) – a 10-week residential program to support the research and scholarly work of Wharton undergraduates who just finished their freshman or sophomore year (i.e., for rising sophomores and juniors). See the SPUR webpage.
Wharton International Research Experience (WIRE) to support the research of rising juniors and seniors on a topic to be pursued abroad that promotes both economic and social value. See the WIRE webpage.

Research Assistantships

Additional Research Opportunities

Contact Dr. Martin A. Asher
Director, Research and Scholars Programs, Wharton Undergraduate Division
Adjunct Professor of Finance
Email: asherm@wharton.upenn.edu
Phone: 215-898-0285