Contribute to world-class research at Bates and beyond

From the first-year seminar to the senior thesis, students conduct research individually or with faculty members. The work is often at the graduate level, and it's not uncommon for Bates students to co-author faculty articles for professional journals or present research at national and international conferences.

The College's expectations for student research are unusually high, and projects throughout the Bates career build students' capacity so that by senior year, they can confidently undertake the thesis or other capstone project. Students are encouraged to conduct research in their courses, in independent studies, as research assistants during the academic year and as summer research fellows.

Support for research

Grant funds are available to students pursuing research. More than a dozen programs provide financial support for summer research on or off campus. Programs during the academic year can help cover expenses associated with thesis research as well as projects for coursework.

"Students here are the ones driving the bus in terms of getting research done."

Will Ambrose, professor of biology

Senior Thesis Research

Bates' senior thesis program sets the College apart from most other undergraduate programs. Students undertake independent research on a topic of considerable complexity.  The thesis requires an excellent understanding of the subject area, its theoretical underpinnings and its research methodology. Students must draw on prior course work and research experience, as well as their creativity, self-discipline and time management skills.

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