FAQ

What is the purpose of the McNair Scholars Program?

The purpose of the program is to increase the diversity of academic and administrative faculty on college campuses by preparing low-income, first generation in college and/or underrepresented students of color who have demonstrated strong academic potential to careers in teaching, research or administration on college and university campuses.

How many students are in the academic year program?

The McNair Scholars Program at the University of Nevada, Reno is funded to

serve 26 students each program year.

What services are provided to prepare scholars for graduate school?

The program provides services that include:

Intensive GRE (Graduate Record Exam) preparation
Tutoring in academic courses to assure academic excellence as needed or requested
Course in research methods
Connection to an academic research mentor
Connection to a graduate student mentor
Research opportunities
$2,800 stipend paid to scholars during the structured summer research program
Assistance in obtaining student financial aid
Assistance in applying to graduate school
Travel to research conferences and recruitment fairs
Seminars and workshops designed to prepare students for doctoral studies

How will you know if a student receives a doctoral degree?

The McNair scholars commit to staying in touch with the program coordinator even after they receive their bachelor degree so their progress towards obtaining a doctorate degree can be tracked. Scholars give permission to the McNair Program to track their academic accomplishments through graduate school.

How do you apply?

You may pick up an application from the TRIO/McNair Scholars Office located in Thompson Building, room 101M or by filling out the on-line application.

Note: Selection of participants will continue until all slots are filled.

Can scholars work during the summer research colloquium?

The program requires a 30 hours per week commitment during the summer program. Scholars will not be able to maintain full-time employment while participating in the summer research program; Scholars are discouraged from working during the summer program. To offset loss of income for summer employment, the McNair Scholars Program will provide a stipend of $2,800, plus a meal plan.

*The University of Nevada, Reno McNair Scholars Program is federally funded at $231,000.00 annually.