Full Program
Students in the Full Outstanding Scholars program receive funding to complete six paid placements between their second and fourth years of study. Placements offer meaningful opportunities to gain research experience, build professional networks, and develop project management skills. The Outstanding project ecosystem demonstrates an institution‑level commitment to undergraduate research excellence. High faculty participation guarantees breadth across disciplines, equitable access, a strong culture of dissemination (see uwilldiscover), and exceptional community engagement.
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Learning Through Evidence-Based Practice
Outstanding Scholars is a full-bodied program where students learn and contribute as:
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Researchers
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Analysts
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Designers and builders
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Creators and communicators
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Community partners
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Leaders and mentors
Placement Types
Research-Intensive Projects
- Laboratory research (biology, chemistry, neuroscience, physics)
- Engineering design, testing, and prototyping
- Data analysis, modelling, and simulation
- AI, machine learning, robotics, cybersecurity, and software development
- Environmental monitoring and sustainability research
Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education
- Psychology, sociology, political science, philosophy, history, and languages
- Equity, diversity, and social justice research
- Education research and curriculum development
- Qualitative and mixed-methods studies
Business and Economics
- Business case writing
- Market and organizational research
- Finance, accounting, and disclosure analysis
- Entrepreneurship and social innovation
Community-Engaged and Applied Projects
- Health care research (nursing, mental health rehabilitation)
- Community-based participatory research
- Not-for-profit and government partnerships
- Knowledge mobilization and public engagement
Entrepreneurship and Sustainability
- Product development using recycled or waste materials
- Environmental innovation and sustainability initiatives
- Enactus and social enterprise projects
Creative, Media, and Arts-Based Projects
- Visual arts, theatre, music, and performance
- Arts-based research and installations
- Podcasting, media production, and storytelling
- Creative knowledge translation
Leadership, Mentorship, and Academic Development
- Student leadership research and curriculum development
- Mentorship coordination and peer programming
- Research conference planning and knowledge mobilization
Hear from Outstanding Scholars
Hear directly from students about their placement experiences.