MIT's UROP was one of the earliest programs of its kind in the United States to invite undergraduates to participate in research as the junior colleagues of faculty. Created in 1969 by the late Margaret L. A. MacVicar, Professor of Physical Science and MIT Dean for Undergraduate Education, UROP was inspired by Edwin H. Land, inventor of instant photography, who believed in the power of learning by doing. UROP can be done for academic credit, pay, or on a voluntary basis. However, students may not receive pay and credit for the same project during any given term.
Projects can last the equivalent of one semester or continue for a year or more.
Students choose UROP as a way to get to know faculty, learn about a potential major, investigate an area of interest, gain practical skills and knowledge for a career or graduate school experience, or find out what research is like. The UROP Office is prepared to answer questions, solve problems, and when possible help with financial support. All UROP paperwork is submitted first to the appropriate UROP Coordinator and then to the UROP Office. All registered MIT undergraduates in good standing, including transfer students, are eligible. Wellesley students may participate in UROP through the MIT-Wellesley Exchange Program.