The McNair Scholars Program is designed to assist students in preparing for graduate or PhD programs, providing valuable support throughout the application process. Named after Dr. Ronald E. McNair, an astronaut and physicist, the program provides opportunities for students to engage in research, academic enrichment, and mentorship. Participants typically come from first-generation, low-income, or ethnic minority backgrounds, and the program aims to increase diversity in graduate education. McNair Scholars receive guidance, resources, and support to pursue advanced degrees and excel in their chosen fields. In addition to this, McNair Scholars engage in their own research projects under the guidance of a faculty mentor and are often paired with internships to gain practical experience.
The program envisions a future where individuals from underrepresented backgrounds have equal access and opportunities to pursue and succeed in doctoral studies. It aims to create a scholarly community where students, regardless of their socioeconomic status, ethnicity, or being first-generation college students, can thrive academically, contribute to research, and ultimately attain advanced degrees. The McNair Scholars Program aspires to break down barriers, empower aspiring scholars, and build a more diverse and representative landscape in academia and research.
Meet one of the following requirements: