Advanced Inquiry Institute

Advanced Inquiry Institute

The Advanced Inquiry Institute is designed for students who seek deeper engagement with scholarly research and aim to elevate their abilities in critical analysis and advanced methodologies.

Over the course of this immersive program, you will engage in sophisticated inquiry, exploring how advanced research is conducted across various disciplines. You will refine your ability to formulate complex research questions, design robust methodologies, and critically evaluate intricate sources. Emphasis will be placed on advanced data analysis, nuanced interpretation, and the development of compelling, well-supported arguments.

You will have the unique opportunity to witness research in practice through experiential learning activities, including faculty presentations, tours of WashU research centers and institutes, and site visits to local institutions engaged in research. These immersive experiences will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the scholarly research process and its real-world applications.

This program is ideal for students with previous research experience who are eager to tackle more challenging material, explore interdisciplinary connections, and actively contribute to scholarly dialogue at a high level.

Prerequisite: have completed the Research Development Institute or possess equivalent experience in research. Prior completion of at least one research project, demonstrated through a paper, presentation, or other relevant academic course work, is preferred. We will also consider applications who have completed an introductory research methods course.

Discover Your Passion

Our High School Summer Institutes were created for students to experience college-level curriculum without the pressure of a letter grade. Each institute has a specific theme or focus and includes traditional undergraduate classroom activities like lectures, discussions, small group collaboration, and final projects. Students explore the connections between different fields of study as they examine scholarly text and engage with WashU affiliated instructors. These programs are designed for students to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and consider new ideas. Class sizes are small (typically between 15-20 students) to ensure student receive personalized feedback from instructors.