Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP) engages students of all backgrounds and disciplines in research project teams led by UMD faculty members. Undergraduates join a team of peer students, work towards common project goals, and gain hands-on research experience while earning course credit for their work. This opportunity is open to UMD undergraduates who have completed at least two semesters and are in good academic standing. Applications purposefully do not ask about GPAs, grades, or prior academic experience. Students are primarily selected based on motivation, interest, and commitment toward the team they hope to join. 

Fourteen teams are accepting students for Spring 2026! Interested students should apply by November 18, 2025 at 11:59 pm. Applications will be reviewed in the order they were received. Students can learn about VIP, the 14 available VIP Teams, and apply to join VIP here.  
Questions may be directed to the VIP Admin Team (vipmaryland@umd.edu).