home > TRiO and USP Programs > McNair Scholars Program

What is the McNair Scholars Program?

The McNair Scholars Program (TRiO) prepares qualified juniors and seniors for graduate study leading to Ph.D. degrees. McNair Scholars receive comprehensive support to earn undergraduate degrees, complete research projects in their fields of study, and apply to graduate schools. The program’s limited size provides a close-knit community while helping students gain a broad understanding of research and university culture.

The University of Oregon celebrates the research achievements of its McNair Scholars during the annual McNair Symposium. These achievements are made possible by faculty mentors who guide Scholars through scholarship activities and help prepare them for the challenges and culture of graduate school.

Contact: Gail Unruh, Director.  Phone: (541) 346-3226

Benefits

• $2800 summer research stipend with classes to enhance research and writing skills
• Graduate funding workshops
• GRE test preparation
• Graduate school application assistance
• Academic advising
• Travel to conferences and to visit prospective graduate schools
• Tuition support

Eligibility

• be low income and first generation in their families to earn a bachelor's degree and/or be from a group underrepresented in graduate education.
• have earned at least 60 undergraduate credits, but not yet have a bachelor's degree.
• be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Applicants must have:

• a competitive GPA for entry into graduate school.
• a completed application including personal statement, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation, at least one from a faculty member within the student's field of study.

The McNair Scholars Program is selective. Admission is based on a student’s academic achievement, aspirations, commitment, and recommendations.

For more information, please see the McNair brochure [pdf]

McNair application form [pdf]
TRiO Workshops - Fall 2009 [pdf]