The Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program

Welcome to the McNair Scholars Program at the University of Northern Colorado. The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program at UNCO is dedicated to nurturing the academic potential of talented undergraduate students and preparing them for success in graduate studies. As part of the federal TRIO initiative, our program aims to increase diversity in higher education by supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds. We offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to empower our scholars:

• • Engaging research opportunities with faculty mentors
  • Thought-provoking seminars and workshops
  • Personalized mentoring to guide your academic journey
  • Expert assistance with graduate school applications

Our program is tailored for:

• • First-generation college students with financial need
  • Students from groups traditionally underrepresented in graduate education
  • Individuals who have demonstrated strong academic potential

At UNCO, we're committed to cultivating a supportive environment that fosters academic growth, scholarly pursuits, and personal development. Our goal is to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in graduate school and beyond.

Join us in our mission to transform students into scholars. The McNair Scholars Program at UNCO is your steppingstone to a bright academic future and a potential career in academia. Together, we'll work towards your goal of earning a Ph.D., Ed.D., or any other graduate program opening doors to a world of intellectual discovery and professional achievement.

Take the first step towards realizing your academic dreams. Explore our program and discover how the McNair Scholars Program at UNCO can help shape your future in higher education.

Program Objectives

OBJECTIVE 1: RESEARCH OR SCHOLARLY ACTIVITY - McNair Scholars will have completed appropriate research or scholarly activities during the McNair Program academic year

OBJECTIVE 2: ENROLLMENT IN A GRADUATE PROGRAM - McNair Scholars will be accepted to and enrolled in a postbaccalaureate program of study by the fall term of the academic year after they graduate.

OBJECTIVE 3: CONTINUED ENROLLMENT IN GRADUATE STUDY - First year graduate students will continue to be enrolled in graduate school at the beginning of the fall term of the next academic year.

OBJECTIVE 4: DOCTORAL DEGREE ATTAINMENT - McNair Scholars will attain a doctoral degree within ten (10) years of the attainment of the bachelor’s degree.