VIGRE2 Vertical Intergration of Research and Education Department of Mathematics, University of Utah

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The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program at the Department of Mathematics supports active research participation by undergraduate students in mathematical areas of research.

At present, there are three models for participating in the REU program: independent projects, summer group programs, and MATH 4950.

Independent projects usually involve a faculty mentor working with an undergraduate on a specific topic or problem. Formal calls for applications will be made at the beginning of each semester. Throughout the semester the student and mentor work together, usually meeting once a week to discuss the topic, find relevant journal articles, or to work on specific problems. At the end of the semester, the REU student produces a final report detailing their research findings.

One group program occurs each summer. A faculty member will choose a topic that will be studied throughout the program. Students apply during Spring semester. A group of 8 - 12 students is chosen. They work together with the faculty member and graduate student assistants to investigate the topic.

MATH 4800 introduces the research experience in a more familiar course setting. Led by a faculty member, students explore a topic of significasnt mathematical interest, or an application of mathematics to a significant problem in science, engineering, or business. Students help to present the material or the results of their own investigations, and write a report on their findings. Prerequesites vary depending on the topic, and course admission is given by the instructor.

The REUs are intended to venture outside of the foundational material that makes up the average undergraduate's mathematical education. It is wise for a student intending to start an REU to have completed at least Calculus III. Consulting with faculty members can help a student determine the appropriate courses needed to start on a specific topic.