Ronald E. McNair Post Baccalaureate Achievement Program

Neither poverty nor discrimination can defeat a determined individual…

Ronald E. McNair, Ph.D.

The Ronald E. McNair Post Baccalaureate Achievement Program, better known as the McNair Scholars Program, prepares high-achieving undergraduate students for graduate/doctoral studies with hands-on research, academic services, and scholarly activities. The program provides motivation, encouragement, and support to 29 students annually from all disciplines. We work closely with participants through their undergraduate requirements; encourage their entrance into graduate programs, and track their progress to successful completion of advanced degrees. Scholars must engage in a summer and academic year programs.

Program activities and services include, but are not limited to:

Research and Scholarly Activities

  • Summer academy and research courses
  • Minimum of year-long research, guided by faculty
  • Opportunities for poster & oral presentations
  • Funding for conferences (and related expenses)
  • Stipend of up to $1800 for research

Graduate School Preparation

  • GRE prep instruction and fee waivers for exam
  • Sessions on graduate school applications, admissions process and funding opportunities
  • Fee waivers for graduate applications
  • Eligibility for fellowships and scholarships

Academic Support and Services

  • Counseling, advising and tutorial support
  • Weekly community & monthly individual meetings

Social, Cultural and Educational Activities

  • Attending University Lecture Series and research presentations as a group
  • Engaging in community building activities
  • Engagement in the Wellness and Empowerment Initiative which includes five dimensions of wellness: social, physical, intellectual and emotional