2024 MSU Summer Topology Program

This year there will be a summer program in topology for Michigan State University undergraduates! This program is supported by an RTG grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the Michigan State University Math Department.

This seven week program will be held in person and will be a full-time commitment (about 40 hours a week). In this directed reading program undergraduate participants will be paired with graduate student mentors to do an independent study project learning about a mathematical topic in the field of topology. In addition, students will:

• participate in topology courses

• build a community of learners

• improve their ability to communicate mathematics

• work and meet with MSU faculty

• learn from panel discussions about various careers in mathematics and other opportunities, and 

• enjoy fun group activities!

Ten to twelve MSU undergraduates will be selected for this program. No background in topology is expected!

Each student will receive a stipend of $5,000. Housing is not provided as part of this program.

The program is restricted to students who are US citizens, nationals, or permanent residents. Participants must be MSU students who have completed at least one year as a full-time undergraduate student, and who will be a full-time undergraduate student in the fall semester of 2024. Participants should have completed MTH 299, MTH317H, or equivalent by the start of the program. Students who are from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. 

Review of applications will start on Feburary 20th. Please direct any questions to Dr. Teena Gerhardt (teena@math.msu.edu). 

Apply here!

Preference will be given to applicants who are at an early stage in their study of mathematics (e.g. rising sophomores and rising juniors). Preference will be given to applications received by February 20, 2024. Applications will be reviewed starting on February 20th and will continue to be reviewed until all positions have been filled. 

Can I also take summer courses or work at another job while participating in the Summer Topology Program?

No, the Summer Topology Program is a full-time program, so participants cannot take courses or work at another job at the same time as participating in the Summer Topology Program. 

Can I get course credit for participating in the Summer Topology Program? 

If you would like to, you can enroll in 1-2 credits of MTH490 Directed Studies to earn credits for your participation in the Summer Topology Program. Selected particpants who are interested in doing this should contact Teena Gerhardt (teena@math.msu.edu). The cost of enrolling in these credits is not covered by the program. 

Can I get on-campus housing during the Summer Topology Program?

The program does not have any on-campus housing arranged. However, students who are enrolled in at least 1 credit during Summer Session One can apply for housing on campus through MSU Residence Education and Housing Services. In order to be eligible for this housing, participants can register for 1-2 credits of MTH490 Directed Studies for their participation in the Summer Topology Program (see question above). The cost of the credits and the cost of the housing is not covered by the program.