UROC (pronounced you-rock) is administered by the University of Arizona Graduate College. UROC is an umbrella for a number of undergraduate programs and provides participants with research training and graduate (Master's and PhDs) school preparation.
UROC OVERVIEW
- Rising juniors and seniors*
- US citizen or permanent resident
- 3.0 GPA or above
- Interest in pursuing a Master’s or PhD
- Ability to be in Tucson, AZ and commit to 40 hours/week of coursework and research during the duration of the summer portion of the programs (2026: June 8 - August 7)
Students may not participate in UROC more than once. Please note that no previous research experience is required.
*Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement program also accepts sophomores.
- Time Commitment: For year-round programs, time commitment is dependent on individual programs (UROC-Prep, McNair, and MARC). During summer, student participants are expected to spend 40 hours per week on research and program-related activities for the entire duration of the program (June 8-August 7, 2026).
- Summer Program Exclusivity Commitment: Students are not permitted to have outside jobs or take additional coursework at the U of A or any other institution during the duration of the summer programming.
- Attendance: UROC events, coursework, and final deliverables are mandatory.
- Student Research Showcase
- UROC Research Conference: UROC Research Conference held on 8/6 and 8/7.
- Abstract Submission: Included in the Annual UROC Abstract Review upon completion of the program.
- Research Experience under the guidance of a faculty mentor
- Professional Development and graduate admission workshops
- A $5,000 summer stipend (award amount and disbursement varies by program)
- All-Programs Socials: Student participants are encouraged to attend community building events hosted by UROC.
Year Round Programs
These U of A Graduate College programs run through the academic year and 10 weeks of the Summer. NOTE: You must be a student at the University of Arizona to apply.
Summer-Only Programs
These U of A Graduate College supported programs run for 10 weeks in the Summer and are open to U of A and non-U of A students!
Programs Overview
Brief descriptions and links to all of the programs' web pages are listed under "UROC Programs Overview" in the left menu. Visit individual program websites for more detailed information.