McNair Scholars Program
www.unco.edu/mcnair
(970) 351-2744
The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program provides eligible college students with effective preparation for doctoral study through research and scholarly activities, summer internships, seminars and workshops, mentoring, and assistance with graduate school admission processes. As a member of the federal TRIO family of programs, the McNair Scholars Program is dedicated to increasing access to doctoral education among currently underrepresented groups.
Established in 1995, the UNC McNair Scholars offers juniors and seniors the opportunity to conduct independent research guided by a faculty advisor.
UNC currently hosts the only McNair Scholars Program in Colorado. Admission is highly competitive; only 15 students are selected each year.
Program Highlights
UNC McNair Scholars
- Participate in
- a two-semester research seminar (2 credits each semester)
- a 6-week summer research internship
- a one-semester graduate school preparation course (1 credit)
- workshops and events intended to introduce them to academic culture, celebrate accomplishments, and encourage continued personal, professional, and academic development
- Develop individual success plans to help achieve undergraduate and graduate academic goals
- Design and complete independent research projects topics of their choice with guidance from faculty mentors and McNair staff
- Deliver poster and oral presentations at local, regional and national conferences
- Publish their research in UNC’s Undergraduate Research Journal
- Receive guidance in crafting curriculum vitas and graduate admissions essays, identifying internship opportunities, and identifying sources of funding for graduate programs
- Receive assistance in preparing for graduate admissions exams
- Receive financial assistance to support completion and presentation of research, participation in the summer research internship, graduate admissions exams, and the graduate application process
Program Course Requirements
UNIV 431 McNair Scholars Research Studies I (2) (offered in Fall)
UNIV 432 McNair Scholars Research Studies II (2) (offered in Spring)
UNIV 433 McNair Post-Baccalaureate Preparation Seminar (1) (offered in Fall)
Additionally, students complete a six-week summer program.
Program Eligibility
- Juniors and seniors with a 3.0 or higher GPA.
- First-generation/low-income and/or members of populations underrepresented in graduate education.
- Committed to completing a doctoral degree.
Applications are available in the spring; the deadline for applying is approximately March 1.
Additional Information
Detailed information is available at the McNair Scholars Program website: www.unco.edu/mcnair, by visiting the office in Michener L-75, or by calling (970) 351-2744.
The McNair Scholars Program is funded 100% through a U.S. Department of Education grant, PR/Award Number P217A080039.