Undergraduate Research

Going Beyond the Classroom

Engaging in research allows you to dive deeper into the questions that drive innovation in healthcare, expand your knowledge, and gain hands-on experience that sets you apart in your career. Whether you are exploring public health trends, best clinical practices, or health technologies, research sharpens critical thinking, builds problem-solving skills, and enhances your resume. Plus, it’s a chance to work closely with faculty mentors, contribute to meaningful discoveries, and make a real impact on communities. Start your journey today and take the first step toward becoming a leader in the health professions!

Past Student Projects and Conference Presentations

Public Health and Community Health Education

(Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Porther)
Spatial Analysis of Food Access Points In Northern Berkshire County 

(Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Porther)
The Effects of COVID-19 on Opioid-Related EMS Incident Reporting in Berkshire County 

(Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Porther)
Building Community: Women of Color Experiences at a PWI 

(Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Porther)
How Far Have We Come and Where Do We Go? BLM in Higher Ed. 

(Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Porther)
Bryophyllum Pinnatum as a Novel Antimicrobial Agent 

(Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Porther)
College Smoking Behavior: An Assessment of Electronic Cigarettes and Marijuana Use on a Small College Campus 

The Research Experience

As a student researcher in the Department of Health Professions, you will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with faculty mentors on research projects that have a direct impact on the future of healthcare and public health.  These experiences will prepare you for the challenges in health professions and immerse you in innovative studies aimed at improving health outcomes for individuals and communities. 

Students typically receive credit (1-3) for research after enrolling in the course Research in Health Professions or similar. Research can be a semester or multi-semester long project and can also occur during the summer*. Your faculty mento would guide you on the expectations and feasibility of projects.

Under the guidance of your mentor, you will explore topics that align with your interests while gaining valuable skills in: 

  • Designing and planning research projects 
  • Conducting fieldwork and collecting data
  • Interpreting and analyzing results
  • Developing effective presentation techniques 
  • Communicating meaningful findings and insights

Please visit MCLA’s Undergraduate Research page for additional information and details.

*Students interested in Summer Research should contact faculty in the Fall semester of the academic year. Summer research is also financially supported. See the Undergraduate Research page for application process and requirements

Why do Undergraduate Research?

Participating in research is not just about academic growth; it is an essential step in your professional development. 

Research clearly demonstrates that students engaged in these activities achieve: 

  • Improved and superior academic performance 
  • Increased self-confidence 
  • A significant advantage when entering the workforce 

We are committed to establishing a vibrant environment where students and faculty unite to tackle critical health challenges. Our faculty members are experts in their fields, dedicated to mentoring students and igniting a passion for transformative healthcare research. Our research confronts a wide array of health topics, reflecting the pressing needs and interests of our community. We are actively developing innovative treatments and preventive care strategies while examining the social determinants of health, all with the aim of enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities alike.

 

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