Undergraduate research experiences, where students not only engage in the scientific process but are socialized into the scientific community, are important to fostering students’ emerging scientific identities. However, undergraduate research often involves intensive support. Most labs can only support a limited number of students due to the mentoring associated with novice investigators. This study examined an ocean-centric Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE). CUREs engage cohorts of students in research projects in a more controlled and collaborative environment than typical undergraduate research experiences. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a CURE on undergraduates’ ocean literacy, self-efficacy, and their connection to place and community. The nested configuration of this program can serve as a model for addressing a critical gap in opportunities for students to fulfill research credits while also serving as an important bridge for connecting students to the environment.

STEMS² Pillars: Sense of Place