Discover the VIP experience beyond the basics
The VIP program at Purdue is a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to earn academic credit while working on long-term, interdisciplinary research and design projects. These projects are tied to active research areas led by Purdue faculty and are often sponsored by industry, government or international partners.
But VIP is more than just a course — it’s a launchpad for innovation, leadership and real-world impact.
What makes VIP special?
- Mentorship culture: VIP fosters a layered mentorship system where faculty and graduate students guide teams and experienced undergrads mentor newcomers. This creates a collaborative, inclusive environment that grows with students.
- Leadership development: Students evolve from contributors to leaders. Through VIP, students gain both technical and professional leadership skills in project management, technical coordination and communication — skills that employers and grad schools value highly.
- Long-term growth: Unlike short-term projects, VIP encourages multi-semester participation. This continuity allows students to take ownership of work and see real progress over time.
Behind the scenes: research that matters
- VIP teams contribute to cutting-edge research, some of which leads to patents, startups and national grants.
- Students work on projects sponsored by industry giants like Intel and Toyota, gaining exposure to professional environments and networking opportunities.
Real student impact
- Student have led research papers, won fellowships and received multiple job offers thanks to their VIP experience.
- Projects range from robotics inspired by nature to emotion-detecting algorithms for printers. VIP is a space where creativity meets innovation.
Faculty-driven innovation
- VIP is deeply tied to faculty research interests, meaning students contribute to meaningful, ongoing investigations. This connection often leads to deeper academic relationships and research opportunities.