Undergraduate Research
Undergraduate Research
The Sociology Department strongly encourages and supports undergraduate student research. Our faculty have a strong reputation for working with students on research projects, conference presentations, and publications.
Participating in research provides numerous benefits to students. It offers students opportunities to get hands-on experience, participate in professional activities, apply your knowledge, test out potential careers, and build up your resume. Research documents that student participation in research enhances intellectual, communication, and teamwork skills.
The Sociology Faculty look forward to working with our students on research projects. You can learn more about faculty research interests and projects of the sociology faculty by contacting the department at sociology@shsu.edu.
For information on how to get involved in research and the resources available, please see the information below.
Conference Presentations and Travel
The University and Sociology Department has funding available for students to travel to and present at professional conferences. If you are interested in presenting a paper or poster at a professional conference, please follow these steps.
- Meet with a Sociology faculty member or the undergraduate coordinator to discuss potential conferences.
- Submit the necessary materials to the conference (e.g., abstract or paper).
- Apply for funding. To be eligible for funding from the Sociology Department, students must apply to all three of the following funding programs:
- STAPP Award - The STAPP Award is provided by the Center for Research Experiences and Creative Activities (EURECA). Awards are up to $400 for state/regional conferences and $800 for national/international travel.
Deadlines: Fall semester: October 1, Spring and Summer semesters: March 1
*After the priority deadlines travel applications are evaluated on a rolling basis
- S.P.U.R. - The Sponsoring Promising Undergraduate Research (SPUR) program is a College of Humanities and Social Sciences program.
Deadlines: There are no deadlines. Applications are evaluated in a rolling basis.
- Department of Sociology - The Department of Sociology funds majors and minors to present research at conferences. Awards are up to $500 for majors and $300 for minors.
Deadlines: There are no deadlines. Applications are evaluated in a rolling basis.
*Registration fees, transportation, accommodations, and meals are eligible for funding. Note: All travel must adhere to university requirements.
*Once students receive funding, you will need to work with the Sociology Department Staff to make your travel arrangements.
Sam Houston State University Research Opportunities
Research Grants
The Center for Research Experiences and Creative Activities (EURECA) sponsors student research activities. The FAST Awards Program funds teams of 1-3 undergraduate students working together on a single scholarly or creative project under the mentoring of either one Sam Houston State University faculty member or an interdisciplinary team of 2 or more SHSU faculty members.
Funding: Up to $2000 per student.
Deadline: December 10 at 5:00 pm.
On-Campus Presentations
Undergraduate Research Symposium
The Honors College at Sam Houston State University hosts an annual undergraduate research symposium where students can present their research. The symposium is open to all Sam Houston State University students.
Deadlines: Registration: March 15, Symposium: April 27: 8:00-5:00
Undergraduate Research Symposium Application
On-Campus Journal
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Sam Houston State University
publishes an annual journal, The Measure, that features research by undergraduate students. Current sociology students may submit original, research-based work created as part of a course, an independent study, honors contract, or special project.
Deadlines: January 15, May 15
For questions on undergraduate research or more information, please contact the Department Chair, Dr. Konefal (jason.konefal@shsu.edu) or the undergraduate coordinator, Dr. Constance (SOC_DHC@shsu.edu).