New program for students: VIP@UMD
Earn 1 credit while contributing to long-term research.
VIP (Vertically Integrated Project) teams bring UMD students from all fields together to solve complex problems semester after semester.
This multi-semester, multidisciplinary program creates large VIP Teams where returning students mentor new students, and everyone gains experience vital to today’s global workforce.
Vertical integration refers to the VIP Team composition, which includes undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty. Faculty benefit from their VIP Teams’ work, and research has shown gains in student leadership, job placement, ability to work in multidisciplinary teams, ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, and understanding of technologies relevant to students’ fields.
UMD's first VIP Teams begin in Spring 2027, and more VIP Teams will be added each year.
Faculty - consider starting a team to help with your research!
Students - join a VIP team to prepare for professional life, meet new people, and explore new future careers!
