Boise State University offers several annual awards that recognize the outstanding contributions of faculty and graduate students in research, mentoring, advising, and scholarly achievement.
Each year, four award opportunities are available:
- Distinguished Doctoral and Master’s Scholarship
- Three Minute Thesis (3MT)
- Graduate Mentoring Award
- Graduate Student Showcase
Distinguished Doctoral and Master’s Scholarship
Since 2008, the Graduate College has honored the outstanding scholarly work of Boise State graduate students through a set of annual awards. These awards recognize excellence across thesis and project work, innovation, and doctoral research, following the nomination categories established by the Western Association of Graduate Schools (WAGS) and the Council of Graduate Schools (CGS). Winning master’s projects are also submitted to the regional WAGS/ProQuest competition.
Learn more about the award categories and nomination process.
Three Minute Thesis (3MT)
The Three-Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition challenges graduate students to present their research and its significance in just three minutes to a general audience. Developed by the University of Queensland, 3MT helps students strengthen their communication skills while showcasing the impact of their work. Winners advance to Idaho’s Statewide 3MT competition to compete against peers from the University of Idaho and Idaho State University.
Boise State awards cash prizes to the top presenters, including first through fourth place and an Audience Choice award.
See the most recent Three Minute Thesis award winners.
Mentoring Awards
The Graduate Mentoring Awards celebrate excellence in mentoring across the Boise State graduate community. Each year, one award recognizes a faculty or staff member who provides exceptional guidance, support, and leadership to graduate students, while a separate student award honors a graduate student who demonstrates outstanding peer mentoring within their program.
These awards highlight individuals who foster growth, belonging, and academic and professional success through meaningful, sustained mentorship.
Learn more about award criteria, nomination guidelines, and past recipients.
Graduate Student Showcase
The Graduate Student Showcase is a one-day conference that highlights the research, creativity, and expertise of Boise State graduate students. It offers a chance for graduate students to present their work, connect with peers across disciplines, and compete for cash awards.
Participants are eligible to win up to $500, with awards given within each academic college as well as presidential scholar awards recognizing the strongest presentations overall. Learn more about past awards winners.