The McNair Scholars Program prepares high-achieving first generation and income eligible students for graduate study. We are funded by a TRIO grant from the United States Department of Education. The goal is to increase the attainment of Ph.D. and graduate degrees by first-generation college students and students from limited-income backgrounds.

 

• What opportunities are available?

  • Funded stipends for research/scholarly activities

  • Travel to conferences and graduate school fairs

  • Mentoring to guide research and scholarly activities

  • Support through the graduate school admissions process

  • Professional, cultural and networking opportunities

  • Access to a community of scholars who inspire excellence

• Who is eligible to apply?

  • Academically motivated with a strong interest in pursuing a PhD or other graduate degree

  • Passion for engaging in research or other scholarly activity

  • Typically apply during sophomore or junior year

  Please see the application or contact the program director for eligibility criteria if you are unsure or have any questions about UAA's McNair Scholar Program.

• Who was Dr. Ronald E. McNair?

  Dr. Ronald E. McNair left a lasting legacy. In addition to being an accomplished physicist and astronaut, he was a skilled athlete, saxophone player, and a dedicated family man. He was a member of the ill-fated Challenger launch; his legacy of scholarship inspires others to dream big and look to the stars! 

  To learn more about Dr. McNair's legacy, please explore the resources below:

       Dr. McNair's Brief Biography

       Ronald E. McNair Elementary School Biography

       The Life and Times of Dr. Ronald E. McNair

  You are also invited to drop by the UAA McNair Scholars Program office (ADM 285) to check out the following books on Dr. McNair's legacy:

       In the Spirit of Ronald E. McNair - Astronaut: An American Hero authored by Carl S. McNair

       Ron's Big Mission authored by Rose Blue and Corinne Naden and illustrated by Don Tate

• Why pursue graduate education?

  The decision to pursue a graduate degree will change your life. In-depth professional expertise and greater career opportunities result from an advanced degree improving your research, writing and analytical skills leading you to become a more skillful problem solver who tackles the most complex projects. If your personal and professional goals include these objectives, the decision to pursue a graduate degree is right for you. The UAA Graduate School's McNair Scholars Program is designed to help you realize your dreams.

 

Get in Touch

---

Sunny Mall, Ph.D.

Program Director