What is URSA?
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URSA stands for Undergraduate Research Study Abroad. It is one of the most unique study abroad programs in the world. URSA students chase their own interests by developing a research proposal of their choosing, in any field of study, then traveling to Morocco to conduct that research. URSA is an empowering, culturally immersive study abroad experience that rolls out in four distinct sections (see below). URSA is unique in its allowing students independence to pursue their passions but to do so with support from several faculty and cultural liaisons. If you value independent work and want to set yourself apart by doing something amazing, URSA is for you!
There are four distinct periods of the URSA program: 1) fall application, 2) spring course, 3) summer research, 4) period of mentored writing
1) Fall Application
1) Fall Application
Students apply in the fall for the following summer. They provide a letter of interest with three potential research ideas, a transcript, and a sample of their writing. Students who make the first cut will be a granted an interview so we can learn more about them and their potential fit. We select our final URSA team of 15-18 students by the end of November.
2) Spring Course
2) Spring Course
URSA students will enroll in a spring course (UST 4916) at UMD to work on cultural preparation and research methodologies. The spring course includes group and one-on-one meetings that are scheduled around your existing course schedule so you can make it work without compromising your graduation progress.
3) Summer Research
3) Summer Research
Students spend 6 weeks in country (usually mid-May through end of June. The first 5 days are orientation so students can get used to Rabat, meet their UIR buddies and advisors, and learn how to navigate in the city. Students then meet their host families. Over the next five weeks, students conduct their research.
4) Mentored Writing
4) Mentored Writing
Once back at UMD, students will focus on writing up their findings into full research paper. Students interested in publishing their research will focus on the format for their discipline. To date, URSA students have published several articles and presented at dozens of conferences.
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