
Research
Freedom to discover
As the top master's-level university for undergraduate research, you don’t have to wait to use your newfound skills and knowledge in the real world — here, your education will come to life. No matter what your interests are, the opportunity to explore and discover is possible in all areas of study. You might research how plants help forecast climate change, determine the financial impact of Super Bowl ads or study compassion fatigue among caregivers. These transformational learning opportunities open doors to all that is possible for you and your future.
40% of Blugolds
complete a research experience before graduation
Faculty research mentors
Your professors are experts in their fields, and they're ready to mentor you, provide real-world experiences and connect you to experts in the field as early as your first year. With the aid of faculty mentors, you can co-author reports to be published in peer-reviewed journals, travel to present results at regional, national and international conferences and have a real impact on the future of knowledge. While the numbers vary from year to year, 30-50 percent of our students have an in-depth research experience by the time they graduate.
What are the benefits of undergraduate research?
When you step outside your comfort zone and work alongside distinguished professors and fellow researchers, you gain access to a network that will carry you into the future, presenting opportunities you might have otherwise missed. You develop critical thinking, oral and written communication skills — skills that employers in all industries say they value greatly. You have the freedom to explore your interests and discover the right career path for you. And you will be better prepared to enter the workforce or continue your educational journey at grad school.
The ability to conduct research, problem solve and think critically are some of my most meaningful takeaways from UW-Eau Claire. These skills are valuable and translatable to many types of jobs, not just those that are research-focused.

A leader in research
Thanks to multiple nominations from leaders of other academic institutions, UWEC was included in the 2022-2023 Best Colleges ranking for Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects.
Mayo Clinic Collaboration
The collaboration between UW-Eau Claire and Mayo Clinic Health System — the third of its kind in the United States — allows students, faculty and staff to share innovative ideas and develop solutions for real-world problems.
This collaboration presents new internship and research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students and empowers physicians and scientists to launch research projects that may not have happened otherwise. Students from a vast array of majors, including nursing, computer science, music and art, are invited to participate.
Collaborative faculty-student research: We do it best
The Center of Excellence for Faculty and Undergraduate Student Research Collaboration was established at UW-Eau Claire in 1988 by action of the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. The Center provides students with an opportunity for experience in research, scholarly and creative activity, and presentation of results through a number of programs that provide grant support opportunities for faculty and students engaged in collaborative research.

A celebration of research
Each year the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs hosts a weeklong celebration of the accomplishments of Blugold student researchers from all disciplines. Don't miss this chance to share your hard work and exciting discoveries!
Learn more about CERCA