Research

James Madison College offers a variety of undergraduate research opportunities that enable students to pursue in-depth scholarship and develop research skills under faculty guidance.

The college provides three distinct pathways for students to engage in meaningful academic inquiry:

  • Independent Study courses for specialized topic exploration,
  • the Senior Honors Thesis program for substantial research projects,
  • Madison Academic Research Tutorials (MARTs) for collaborative small-group research experiences.

These undergraduate research opportunities prepare students for graduate school success, enhance career prospects, and provide valuable writing samples and research credentials for future academic and professional endeavors. Faculty-supervised research experiences accommodate diverse academic interests while maintaining high standards for scholarly achievement, ensuring every student can find a research pathway that aligns with their academic goals and career aspirations.

Independent Study

Explore an area of study in-depth under the direction of a JMC faculty member.

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MARTs

Highly individualized study that's not addressable through any other course format.

MART Details

Senior Honors Thesis

Independent research supervised and evaluated by a JMC faculty member.

Explore Options

Research Spotlight: Human Rights Data Science Lab

The Human Rights Data Science Lab at JMC is an innovative undergraduate research project that bridges academic learning with critical global human rights work. Students working with the lab have presented their work to the International Criminal Court, Amnesty International, and other civil society and legal organizations.

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This image shows a group of student participants of James Madison College's Human Rights Data Science Lab.

Photos shows JMC students and scholars in the Lower Mekong River Basin.

Research Spotlight: Mekong Culture WELL

The Mekong Culture WELL project, led by JMC Prof. Amanda Flaim, is a dynamic, interdisciplinary team of scholars and students at MSU who work in collaboration with community partners, artists and experts across the Lower Mekong River Basin. Their aim is to advance cultural and interdisciplinary studies of the region and foster environmental justice.

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JMC Research Showcase