TRIO McNair Scholars Program
The TRIO McNair Scholars Program prepares qualified students for graduate study leading to PhD 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 cohort size provides a close-knit community and helps students gain a broad understanding of research and university culture.
Learn more about TRIO McNair Scholars Programs around the US.
The McNair Scholars program has provided me with the knowledge to approach graduate school with confidence. Thanks to the support I've received from the program, I feel empowered to challenge institutional norms and change the narrative of what a 'scholar' is supposed to look like.
About Ronald McNair
Ronald Erwin McNair was born October 21, 1950 in Lake City, South Carolina. While in junior high school, Dr. McNair was inspired to work hard and persevere in his studies by his family and by a teacher who recognized his scientific potential and believed in him. In 1976, at the age of 26, he earned his Ph.D. in laser physics.
Because of his many accomplishments, he was selected by NASA for the space shuttle program in 1978. Dr. Ronald E. McNair was the second African American to fly in space. After his death in the Challenger Space Shuttle accident on January 28, 1986, members of Congress provided funding for the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program. This program is dedicated to the high standards of achievement inspired by Dr. McNair’s life.
TRIO McNair Scholars Research Journal
Explore the 2024 TRIO McNair Scholars Research Journal, showcasing original research conducted by our talented scholars and their faculty advisors. This publication highlights their dedication to academic excellence and their contributions to various fields of study.
What does the UO TRIO McNair program offer?
The University of Oregon TRIO McNair Scholars Program supports high-achieving undergraduates who aspire to earn a PhD. The program offers:
- Faculty-Mentored Research
Conduct original research under the guidance of a UO faculty member, culminating in a scholarly paper and presentation. Many McNair Scholars present at national conferences and publish their work. - Graduate School Preparation
Get expert guidance on selecting programs, securing letters of recommendation, writing personal statements, and assembling competitive applications. - Funding & Summer Research Stipend
Receive financial support, including a summer research stipend, graduate school application fee waivers, and travel funding for graduate visits or conferences. - Weekly Seminars on Research & Scholarship
Engage in weekly, credit-bearing seminars that build your skills as a scholar and researcher. Topics include the research process, academic writing, presenting at conferences, and navigating the culture of academia. - Targeted Workshops
Attend additional workshops on topics like funding graduate school, writing personal statements, and managing imposter syndrome - offered throughout the year to meet scholars’ evolving needs. - Mentorship & Community
Join a vibrant, identity-affirming cohort of fellow scholars, graduate students, and alumni. Build long-lasting relationships with faculty and staff who understand your journey. - Ongoing Support
Receive one-on-one advising tailored to your academic goals, personal strengths, and graduate aspirations.
Our goal is to empower McNair Scholars to transform their aspirations into achievement and to become the next generation of scholars, researchers, and change agents.
Are you eligible?
Applicants must meet all six requirements:
1. Plan to go directly to graduate school after earning your Bachelor’s degree and have the desire to earn a PhD (Research Doctorate);
*Please note that the program is not open to students whose plans are to earn a professional degrees (MD, JD, MBA, PharmD, etc.).
2. Must be an income-eligible student (please see current TRIO income levels here) who is also a first-generation college student (neither parent nor legal guardian had a Bachelor’s degree during the formative years);
3. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
4. Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and be in Good Standing;
5. Must be an enrolled undergraduate student with at least 45 credits at the University of Oregon;
6. Must have at least six quarters left before graduation including one available Summer Term for a research internship before final year.
Selection will be made on a competitive basis from those applicants who best meet the purposes of the program as defined by the U.S. Department of Education. Applicants who best meet the federally mandated guidelines will be selected on the basis of their potential for pursuing doctoral studies and their ability to benefit from the program.
Code of Federal Regulations - Title 34; Subtitle B; Chapter IV; Part 647; Subpart A; § 647.3 (c) (1) (2) (3)
Apply now!
Priority Application Deadline for next cohort: November 1, 2025
Contact Us
For general inquiries, please email mcnair@uoregon.edu.
Phone: 541-346-8137
Instagram: @uo_mcnair