WSU Academic Competitions
Washington State University offers several opportunities for students to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. Through academic competitions and research showcases, students gain hands-on experience, strengthen their professional skills, and engage directly with faculty mentors and industry professionals.
These events highlight the creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking skills that define WSU students across disciplines.
Showcase for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (SURCA)
SURCA is WSU’s annual event that highlights the original research, scholarship, and creative work of undergraduate students across all majors and campuses. With guidance from faculty mentors, students present their projects in a one-day poster session, sharing how their work contributes to their field. Presentations are judged and awards are given at every level of experience — from novice researchers to advanced scholars — across nine disciplinary categories.
Undergraduate Research Symposium (Department of Psychology)
The Undergraduate Research Symposium, hosted annually by WSU’s Department of Psychology for psychology majors, recognizes and rewards outstanding undergraduate research. Students develop and carry out original research projects under the guidance of psychology faculty, exploring both basic and applied topics that reflect the department’s diverse interests.
Each spring, participants present their findings at a public symposium open to the WSU and Pullman/Moscow communities. The event also features an invited guest speaker from the field of psychology, offering insights into current research and professional pathways.
WSU Beta Alpha Psi’s Annual Case Competition
The Beta Alpha Psi – Delta Epsilon Chapter at WSU hosts an Annual Case Competition for students majoring in accounting, finance, management information systems, data science, and actuarial science.
Working in teams, participants analyze a real-world business or ethical case and present formal recommendations to a panel of professional judges. The competition rewards strong analysis, teamwork, and communication skills — and provides valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals.
The top teams receive certificates and gift cards, but all participants gain hands-on experience that helps them grow as future leaders in financial information and decision making.