students in a classroom at the Faculty of Arts

Research in Practice (AHL 3900)

Research isn't just for graduate students. This is your chance to work directly with a Faculty of Arts professor exploring ideas, culture, creativity and human experience in ways that can inspire change, spark conversation and shape society.

This course helps you move beyond the classroom and contribute to ongoing research or creative projects. You’ll develop practical, transferable skills valued across careers and industries, including communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, research, storytelling and project management.

This new course allows you to turn ideas into meaningful work, gain hands-on experience, and discover how creativity and research can make an impact in the world around you.

Why choose Research in Practice

Students walking on campus

Curious about research but not sure where to begin? Research in Practice (AHL 3900) lets you explore your interests in a more independent, creative and applied way while developing skills valued across many careers.

In a rapidly changing world shaped by AI and new technologies, employers continue to value the skills developed through the liberal arts: communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving. These are skills that help you adapt, lead and succeed across careers and industries.  

Through this course, you’ll:

  • Gain hands-on experience that stands out on graduate school and job applications  
  • Build confidence in research, writing, analysis and communication  
  • Learn how to develop research questions, analyze ideas and share findings  
  • Strengthen the uoCompetencies that prepare you for careers in academia, the professions and the creative sector 

Program Structure

You’ll contribute to structured, hands-on research project working with a professor

The course consists of 120 hours, including:

  • 15–20 hours of mandatory training (details to be determined)
  • Approximately 15 hours of meetings with the supervisor (or a research team)
  • 10–15 hours dedicated to poster design and exhibition preparation
  • 75 hours of independent research conducted by you (approximately 6 hours per week), including reflective activities

Depending on the project, you may:

  • Explore archives, media, culture or historical materials
  • Conduct interviews, surveys or content analysis
  • Contribute to creative, digital or community-based projects
  • Analyze ideas, trends or social issues
  • Participate in collaborative discussions and research team meetings
  • Help shape real research questions and ongoing projects 

Admission requirements and deadlines

Apply now

To apply, you must:

  • Have completed at least 24 units
  • Submit official documentation that proves you have good academic standing (such as your CGPA)  

* Review your selected project for the professor’s specific requirements.

Selection process

Spaces are limited. During the application process, rank your preferred projects (1 as your top choice and 5 as your last choice).

We review applications based on:

  • Your academic record
  • The quality of your application  
  • Your alignment with the research project
  • Your motivation and interest in research  
  • Your commitment to participating in the full duration of the project 

After you complete the course

Professor talking with a student

By completing this course, you will:

  • Leave university with concrete experience you can speak about in interviews, applications and future opportunities
  • Gain insight into how ideas move from research to public conversations, communities and creative work
  • Explore how arts research contributes to culture, society, storytelling, policy and social change
  • Develop the adaptability and people-centred skills that remain valuable in the age of AI and automation
  • Gain a better understanding of your strengths, interests and future goals through applied learning experiences

Most importantly, you’ll leave with something many students are looking for: practical experience, a stronger sense of direction, and the confidence to take your next step — whether in graduate studies, the workplace or creative and research opportunities. 

Contact us

Faculty of Arts

Simard Hall
60 University
Ottawa ON Canada K1N 6N5
Map

Office hours
Monday to Friday
9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(June 1st to August 31st: closed at 3:30 p.m.)

Undergraduate studies

Simard Hall, room 128
Virtual queue and appointment

Fax: 613-562-5973
Email: [email protected]

For specific queries regarding AHL 3900 contact: [email protected]