A university student looks over archival materials in the library with a mentor.

Ready for Research

Learn the basics of research and how to start your UREX journey at UCalgary

Who is this for?

All students at UCalgary can register for free.

What's the format?

This is an online, asynchronous course led by a UCalgary instructor.

Is this for credit?

This is a non-credit program where you receive a completion badge at the end.

How long is this?

This is a 13-week course that requires a commitment of approximately 12 hours.

Make an impact with research

Ready for Research prepares you to do research — from finding a research question and approaching a supervisor, to preparing an application for a UREX Summer Studentship.

The Ready for Research badge program will prepare you to confidently participate in research within your undergraduate studies. It consists of ten synchronous and asynchronous online modules, allowing you to choose between various learning activities to match your personal interests. Participating in this course will help you discover undergraduate research opportunities on campus and create a plan to get involved with the research you are truly passionate about, enriching your undergraduate experience.

Important dates

Registration opens

July 15, 2026

Registration closes

Sept. 22, 2026

Course starts

Sept. 15, 2026

Course ends

Dec. 18, 2026

Meaghan Edwards leans against a railing in the Hunter Student Commons.

Meet your instructor

Meaghan Edwards is an Associate Professor (Teaching) in Community Health Sciences, Community Rehabilitation and Disability Studies and the Academic Director, Undergraduate Research in the Office of Signature Learning Experiences. Meaghan supports student research in health equity, fostering strong community partnerships, and creating research opportunities with positive impact for students and communities. Meaghan's research in health equity includes critical disability studies, inclusive research practice, and food security. 


What will I learn?


Illustration of a coffee cup with steam in front of a computer monitor.

Register in four simple steps

Ready for Research is free for all UCalgary students, and administered through UCalgary Continuing Education.

Sign in

Log into UCalgary ContEd using your current IT credentials.

Login here

Find the course

You'll see the course page linked below, where you can see more details and start the registration process.

Go to course page

Register

Add the course to your cart and continue to checkout. This is a free course, so you will not be charged.

Get ready!

Watch your email for a pre-course survey to complete. You'll be added to the D2L shell the day before the course starts.