Inspired by Greatness
The McNair Scholars Program seeks to inspire first-generation, low-income students to pursue careers in academia by preparing them for success in doctoral studies through involvement in research and other scholarly activities.
The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program was established to honor the high standards established by Dr. Ronald E. McNair, a physicist who realized his dream of becoming an American NASA astronaut. As NASA’s second Black astronaut to ever visit space, McNair was part of the 7-person crew who tragically lost their lives during the 1986 launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger.
Cultivating Excellence
Discover your passions through research
At the heart of the McNair Scholars Program is a paid summer research experience that allows Scholars to conduct one-on-one research with a faculty mentor.
- 10 weeks independent research experience during the summer semester
- $3,300 stipend to enable full-focus on your research and enrichment
- Free housing on-campus for the duration of the summer program
- $1,000 allowance to support living expenses
If you have questions about McNair the Summer Research Experience, please contact the McNair Program Director, Kelly Lyons, at @email.
Find your Competitive Edge
McNair Scholars are exposed to a variety of programs and activities designed to help them grow their academic interests and jumpstart their post-baccalaureate careers.
- Academic career support from Program faculty and mentors
- Expense-paid travel to U.S. research conferences and graduate research institutions
- Local visits to significant educational, research, and cultural institutions
- Exclusive courses to support success and independence after graduation
Make your mark with a doctoral degree
As a McNair Scholar, our program is committed to helping you gain admission to graduate school. In addition to assistance with preparation of your application materials, Scholars also participate in fundamental academic skill building.
- Guidance on applications for graduate school
- Waived or reduced application fees
- Free academic skill building
- Tuition assistance for select graduate programs
Accelerate Your Future
Building Scholars who are prepared to excel
As a McNair Scholar, you are an inspiration to other low-income, first-generation groups. Our program is committed to helping you realize success as a Scholar through programming that supports both your academic and personal development.
- Health and Wellness
- Financial Planning
- Personal Growth
- Supportive Community