LSU Department of Mathematics

Directed
Reading Program

A one-on-one reading program pairing undergraduates across the region with graduate mentors for a semester of independent mathematical exploration.

About

What is the DRP?

The Directed Reading Program (DRP) offers undergraduate students the opportunity to engage in an independent study project under the mentorship of a graduate student in mathematics. This semester-long initiative lets students explore mathematical topics beyond the standard curriculum, fostering both intellectual growth and a deeper understanding of advanced mathematical concepts.

The program is administered by the LSU Department of Mathematics, and every graduate mentor is an LSU mathematics graduate student. Undergraduates from across a consortium of regional institutions are paired with these LSU mentors. Email Laura Kurtz for more information.

Eligibility

Can I participate?

The DRP is open to undergraduates at participating institutions, regardless of major or mathematical background. We encourage participation from students with diverse academic experiences who have a passion for mathematics and a desire to explore new areas of the field.

Participants are expected to…

  • Have hour-long, weekly meetings with their graduate mentor;
  • Commit to independent study (approx. three hours per week) of the material;
  • Conclude by delivering a brief presentation to their peers and mentors at the end of the semester.

Timeline

Semester at a glance

Weeks 1–2 Matching & setup

Mentors and mentees are paired based on interests and availability.

Weeks 3–13 Weekly meetings

One hour per week with your mentor, plus independent reading between sessions.

Week 14 Final presentations

A short talk to the DRP community on what you explored this semester.

Areas of Interest

What can I study?

Reading projects span the breadth of pure and applied mathematics. When you apply, you'll tell us which broad areas interest you most:

Algebra & Abstract Algebra Analysis (Real / Complex / Functional) Applied Mathematics & Modeling Combinatorics & Graph Theory ODEs & PDEs Geometry & Topology Logic & Foundations Number Theory Numerical Analysis & Scientific Computing Probability & Statistics Mathematical Physics … and more!

Participating Institutions

Who can apply?

Undergraduates from nearby institutions are invited to apply. These include, but are not limited to,

  • Louisiana State University
  • Southern University
  • Southeastern Louisiana University
  • Xavier University of Louisiana
  • LSU New Orleans

Attend another school nearby? Select “Other” on the application and tell us where.

Get Involved

Ready to apply?

The application takes just a few minutes. Tell us your major, your institution, and the areas of mathematics you'd like to explore, and we'll match you with a graduate mentor.

Open the application