Friends of History Undergraduate Research Grant

Travel awards and grants of up to $500 are available to students who can demonstrate that their original research would be significantly enhanced or facilitated by travel to an archive, museum, library, or conference; and/or whose projects require specialized equipment or access to online databases, printed materials, or other sources not available on campus or through our own library.  All History majors in good standing are eligible to apply.

What kinds of research may be funded?

These grants are especially suitable for students planning or doing research on a Senior Honors Thesis, students enrolled in HIST 498, or students pursuing independent research with a faculty advisor under the rubric of HIST 499.  But any eligible applicant who makes a compelling and viable case for funding will be considered.

How can I apply?

Applications must include the following components:

  1. a research proposal, no longer than two pages double spaced, that provides a working title and description of the project and its scholarly significance, with a clear explanation of the specific way(s) that a research grant would be necessary or helpful to its completion
  2. a detailed budget of necessary expenses.
  3. a letter of support from the project’s faculty advisor, or from a faculty member familiar with the student’s work – to be submitted separately.

Applications and letters of support should be submitted electronically to the Director of Undergraduate Studies, Professor Ralph Mathisen.

What's the catch?

Successful applicants will be expected to prepare a brief report on their research.

When are applications due?

Applications should be submitted to Professor Mathisen is April 15.

Students who have time sensitive funding requests can apply at any time, specifying their reason for applying out of cycle in their applications.

How will funds be disbursed?

Successful applicants will have grant money deposited directly into their University accounts.

Contact Professor Ralph Mathisen (ralphwm@illinois.edu) about any other questions you may have.

Recipients