The College of Natural Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin produces world-changing discoveries and prepares the next generation of scientific leaders to stimulate our economy, create medical, technological and scientific breakthroughs, and improve our understanding of the universe.
A history-making powerhouse and one of the largest colleges of sciences in the United States, the college is the educational and scientific home for nearly 11,000 undergraduate students, along with thousands of dedicated graduate scholars, faculty members, and staff, who push the frontiers of knowledge and make advances in basic and applied science and mathematics to transform and improve our world
We are also home to the award-winning and nationally recognized Freshman Research Initiative (FRI), which delivers experiential, active learning that is key to the future success of our students and allows them to do real-world research. A recent study, published in CBE – Life Science Education, finds that FRI leads to higher earnings for participants.
“For every $1 that the university invests in FRI instead of alternative lab courses, students receive a return of more than $4 in earning potential in their first year out of college,” said Stacia Rodenbusch, director of the Freshman Research Initiative and one of the authors on the new paper. “That's 19 percent greater earnings than their peers in the first year after graduation and 16 percent greater earnings over their lifetime.”
Hear what our students have to say about the impact undergraduate research opportunities has made for them.
Give your gift today to support of the Freshman Research Initiative. With your contribution, you make a difference in the lives of UT students and advance scientific discovery for a new generation.
Freshman Research Initiative Match
We are pleased to announce an anonymous foundation will match up to $50,000 for contributions made in support of the Freshman Research Initiative. Gifts will be matched 1:1 until funds are exhausted. Give today to double the impact of your gift!