Reimagining Access to STEM Education

The College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) Program uniquely combines meaningful research experiences and faculty mentorship, while easing financial barriers for students. 

With the SURE Program, students team up with professors on research projects that shape their educational and career path for years to come. Best of all, they earn a salary, helping alleviate the need for additional employment during the summer. Our students concentrate on their research, prepare presentations, and build a professional network. Students with a STEM degree earn an average of 26 percent more than students in other fields. For our graduates, many of whom are first-generation college students, a degree from the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics is transformative for their lives and the lives of their families. 

Undergraduate research can be one of the most important and rewarding experiences for our students. Through hands-on research, students are able to:

• Push beyond the bounds of their existing knowledge
• Tackle open-ended problems with creativity, resourcefulness and determination
• Navigate the “messiness” of science – a process of trial, error and new discovery – of the world around them and within themselves

The advantages of the SURE Program are significant:

• Undergraduate research bolsters confidence, making students more likely to stay in STEM fields and graduate.
• Students gain hands-on experience that will enhance graduate school applications and career prospects.
• Working closely with a faculty mentor in the lab deepens knowledge in biological sciences, chemistry, geology, geography, math, statistics, physics, and astronomy.

Each award costs $8,000, which covers student's salary while conducting research, a faculty stipend, supplies and materials, as well as travel to academic conferences to present their research. With budget uncertainties ahead, your donations are critical to ensuring students can continue to benefit from the SURE Program. Every dollar invested in the SURE Program makes a difference. Your support in any amount will keep the program growing as our students continue their research.  

See Your Donations in Action

SURE Award recipients share their research at the fall College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Student Research Symposium at Sac State, presentations that enhance their professionalism and build their scientific resume.

To give by mail, make checks payable to: The University Foundation at Sacramento State. Please use the mailing address:

Sacramento State | Development Office | 6000 J Street MS 6030 | Sacramento | CA | 95819