McNair Scholars Program Specifics

• completing a year-long Undergraduate Research Project
• writing and submitting a 20–30 page research paper
• participating in 3 consecutive semesters of research (Spring, Summer, Fall)
• attending and engaging in monthly McNair workshops and events
• meeting bi-weekly with McNair staff for guidance and support
• applying to 6–8 graduate programs, including at least two PhD programs
• building a strong, professional relationship with a faculty research mentor

Undergraduate Research Experience 

The McNair Undergraduate Research Experience is structured into three key phases, each designed to guide scholars through the full research process while preparing for graduate school. Scholars who complete all three phases may earn up to $2,800 in stipends.

Phase 1: Research Proposal Writing

Scholars work closely with their faculty mentor to develop a formal research proposal. During this phase, students also begin preparing for the graduate school application process.

Phase 2: Data Collection

As part of the McNair Summer Internship Program, scholars begin collecting data for their research projects. They also participate in GRE preparation courses (math and verbal) and continue working on graduate school applications.

Phase 3: Final Write-Up & Conclusion

In the final phase, scholars analyze their data and complete a 20–30 page research paper. They also apply to graduate programs and present their research at local and national conferences.

Faculty mentors are essential to the success of McNair Scholars. They provide guidance, support, and supervision throughout the student’s year-long research journey and graduate school preparation. Mentors help scholars build research skills, develop academic confidence, and prepare for advanced study. Scholars may identify a faculty mentor independently or receive assistance from McNair staff in finding a mentor aligned with their research interests.

Mentor Responsibilities

Faculty mentors commit to:

• guiding scholars in designing and completing a year-long undergraduate research project
• meeting weekly during the academic year and twice weekly during the summer internship
• supervising and approving all research phases (proposal, data collection, final paper)
• supporting scholars in developing research questions, methods, and analysis
• assisting with graduate school applications and career planning
• communicating regularly with McNair staff about scholar progress
• attending at least one McNair Monthly Meeting during the academic year

Research Phases

Phase I: Proposal Development

Mentors help scholars define their research topic, conduct a literature review, and prepare a formal proposal. IRB approval is secured if needed.

Phase II: Data Collection & Grad Prep

Mentors supervise data collection during the 8-week summer internship. Scholars also attend GRE prep, academic workshops, and begin graduate school applications.

Phase III: Write-Up & Presentation

Mentors review and approve the final paper (20–30 pages), assist with poster design, and help identify conferences or publication opportunities.

• Time & Effort Reports: Mentors submit monthly reports documenting scholar progress, as required by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Stipend Approval: Mentors certify completion of each phase before scholar stipends are disbursed.
• Compensation: Mentors may receive a one-credit load hour during the academic year (pending department approval) and are compensated for summer mentorship.