Mission
Our mission is to empower students in the College of Natural Sciences to become confident, capable and curious problem-solvers through immersive, hands-on learning experiences. We connect students with opportunities to explore real-world research, innovation, global engagement and career development from their first year onward.
By engaging in authentic inquiry and creative exploration, students discover their passions, build practical skills in research, critical thinking, communication and collaboration and develop a growth mindset by tackling challenges in supportive, inclusive environments. We are committed to making these transformative experiences accessible to every student in CNS, ensuring that all learners—regardless of background or pathway—can participate, thrive and prepare to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing world.
Vision
The Office of Experiential Learning envisions a future where every College of Natural Sciences undergraduate at UT Austin is empowered through immersive, hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity, foster a deep sense of belonging in STEM and prepare them to lead with purpose in a global society. We strive to be a catalyst for exploration, growth and innovation—connecting students to opportunities that transform their education and shape their future.
The Office of Experiential Learning currently runs programs that include:
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The Freshman Research Initiative (FRI) and Accelerated Research Initiative (ARI) match 1,000+ students with research opportunities in faculty-led labs for practical experiences in research.
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The Tech & Science Undergraduate Research Forum (URF) allows students to showcase their research findings every spring by presenting research posters independently or in groups.
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CNS Abroad helps match CNS undergraduate students with study abroad programs and international opportunities that fit their schedule and career goals, including research and medical shadowing opportunities.
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Impact Lab gives students the opportunity to earn course credit while developing critical thinking skills and collaborating with community partners to tackle real-world societal challenges.
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Hello Maker Studio offers CNS students hands-on training in fabrication tools like 3D printing, laser cutting and more. It’s a creative space where students from all STEM disciplines can prototype ideas, explore innovative solutions and bring their concepts to life through design and experimentation.
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CNS EDGE is a self-paced program that helps College of Natural Sciences undergraduates gain real-world experience, build professional skills and reflect on their learning to deepen impact and support future career and academic goals through hands-on experiences beyond the classroom.
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Fellowship and scholarship programs dedicated to supporting our CNS Undergraduate students in their pursuit of undergraduate research, study abroad and experiential learning opportunities.
CNS Undergraduate Students can make an appointment with the Experiential Learning team to learn more about engaging in experiential learning opportunities. Our staff and ambassador team are here to help students find impactful experiential learning opportunities to explore themselves, UT and the world.