The Fayetteville State University Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (FSU-RISE) program is federally-funded by the National Institutes of Health/ National Institutes of General Medical Sciences (NIH/ NIGMS).  The overall goal of the program is to increase the number of well-prepared FSU minority students pursuing terminal degrees in biomedical and behavioral fields of study. 

A division of the Department of Natural Sciences, FSU-RISE offers opportunities for faculty, staff and students to engage in professional development and creative scientific research.  In fact, over 110 faculty and students have conducted high-quality research leading to published abstracts and publications through RISE since its inception in 2001. With proven success in helping students achieve their career goals, more than 75% of FSU-RISE Scholars have been granted admissions to graduate study following graduation from Fayetteville State University.

Students matriculate in FSU-RISE as sophomores, although upperclassmen may be considered on an individual basis.  Students who are serious about pursuing graduate study in the biomedical or behavioral research fields are strongly encouraged to apply.