The Impact of Undergraduate Research on Academic Success

This article assesses the accuracy of the assumption that undergraduate research leads to better student outcomes. In particular, it examines whether research involvement by undergraduates predicts subsequent academic success, as measured by grade point average (GPA). Consistent with predictions, results from a series of multiple regression analyses demonstrate that research involvement is associated with higher undergraduate GPA. This effect holds true even when controlling for numerous factors likely to affect both college GPA and the decision to become involved in research (e.g., high school GPA, the number of yearsin college, and parental college attendance). Additional analyses examine whether the timing of participation in research during a student’s college career influences their GPA. Implications for staff and faculty who oversee and promote undergraduate research are discussed