Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC) - University of Tulsa

Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC)

Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC) is an innovative program that enables undergraduates to take challenging courses and conduct advanced research with the guidance of top TU professors.

TURC was founded in 1992 to encourage and support undergraduate students who engage in innovative research projects while also devoting substantial time toward serving the community. Its aim is to create leaders in scholarship, research, and public life through an emphasis on undergraduate research and community involvement.

TURC incorporates research, publication and community service — essential elements to create future leaders.

  • What is TURC?

    TURC offers talented undergraduate students:

    • The opportunity to conduct significant scholarly research while working side-by-side with faculty mentors
    • Challenging coursework, including graduate-level courses
    • Opportunities for innovative service to the community
  • Why is TURC important?

    TURC incorporates research, publication and community service — essential elements to create future leaders. TURC also advances TU’s academic mission and enhances its national reputation. In addition to winning national scholarships, TURC students present papers at conferences, write articles that are published in academic journals, and initiate service projects with a broad and meaningful impact on the community.

  • TURC Scholars

    TURC Scholars are provided:

    • The opportunity to conduct scholarly research during TURC’s summer program and throughout the year
    • Travel funds to attend and present research posters and papers at conferences
    • Support for specialized research equipment and needs
  • Application process

    Applications for the 2023-24 academic year are closed. Information about upcoming applications will be posted here when available.

  • How to support TURC scholars

    You can help TU students gain hand-on research experience. Learn more.

  • Contact TURC

    Questions about TURC?

    Please email any questions to TURC Faculty Fellow Laura M. Stevens, Ph.D., at laura-stevens@utulsa.edu.

    TURC Faculty Fellow

    Read a welcome note from Professor Stevens, TURC Faculty Fellow and Chapman Professor of English.