Funding Opportunities
The Department of Political Science offers a variety of funding opportunities each year to support undergraduate research, internships, travel, and academic development. Students from both the main campus and Shady Grove are encouraged to apply.
Students may apply for multiple opportunities; however, they may receive only one award per calendar year.
Undergraduate Research Funding
UMBC Undergraduate Research Award (URA)
The URA supports undergraduate students conducting faculty-mentored research.
Funding typically supports research projects during the academic year or summer and is associated with campus-wide research showcases such as Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD).
Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD)
URCAD is an annual campus-wide event where students present research and creative work across disciplines. Participation is open to students engaged in research or scholarly projects with faculty mentors.
Small Research Grants
The Center for Social Science Scholarship offers small grants to support undergraduate research, presentation, and related travel.
- Awards are typically modest and designed to offset project-related expenses
- Students may receive limited funding per award cycle
Supplement for Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE)
SURE supports undergraduate participation in faculty-led research projects, particularly for students early in their academic careers.
Funding is often coordinated with campus employment or research support programs and is designed to expand access to research opportunities.
Research Assistance for Faculty Projects (RCA Program)
This program supports undergraduate involvement in faculty-led research and creative projects across disciplines.
Funding is available during both the fall and spring semesters and supports student participation in ongoing scholarly work.
Presentation and Travel Support
Undergraduate Presentation Grants
These grants provide funding for students presenting scholarly or creative work at academic conferences or similar professional events.
Students must typically have:
- Been accepted to present at the time of application
- A faculty mentor supporting the project
Awards help cover travel, registration, and related presentation costs.
UMBC Travel Fund
The Travel Fund provides support for students attending academic conferences or presenting research.
Award amounts may vary depending on funding availability and matching contributions from departments or other units.
External and Discipline-Specific Opportunities
Pi Sigma Alpha Undergraduate Research Conference
Pi Sigma Alpha hosts an annual undergraduate research conference where students present their work in a professional setting.
The conference is typically held in Washington, D.C., and features student research presentations from across the country.
Students interested in participating should consult faculty advisors for application timelines and submission requirements.
Publishing Opportunities
Students are encouraged to share their research through academic journals, including:
- UMBC Review – Undergraduate research journal featuring student scholarship across disciplines
- Pi Sigma Alpha Undergraduate Research Journal – National journal publishing outstanding undergraduate political science research
- Social Movements: A Student Journal of Social Relations – Student-led journal focusing on social and political issues
Additional Information
Funding availability, deadlines, and award amounts vary each year. Students should consult faculty advisors and official UMBC funding portals for the most current application details.