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McNair Scholars Program

Program Overview

Named for fallen Challenger astronaut, Dr. Ronald E. McNair, funded by the U.S. Department of Education/TRiO Programs, and one of 179 programs at universities throughout the country, the Ronald E. McNair Post - Baccalaureate Achievement Program was established at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Prescott, Arizona in 1999.
The primary goal of the McNair Scholars Program is to provide experiences that prepare selected undergraduate students for doctoral study. 

Program Components

To ensure continued academic success, McNair Scholars must participate in the following program components:

  • Seminars and workshops designed to expand skills and learning abilities; to establish academic goals; and enhance personal, social, intellectual, and career development.
  • A research methodology/statistics class that introduces students to research concepts and techniques used in major research projects.
  • Research internship experiences (with a $2800 stipend) that result in a presentation at a conference and a publishable paper.
  • Assistance with the graduate school application process, including selecting an institution, obtaining financial assistance information, preparing for graduate admissions exams, writing a personal statement and submitting applications.
  • Student must maintain a minimum 3.00 GPA during each semester of their participation in the program.

Eligibility Requirements

  • 57 credits completed
  • Cumulative GPA 2.75
  • Low income and first generation college student (neither parent completed a bachelor's degree) or a member of a group under-represented (Hispanic, African American, Native American, Pacific Islander) in Graduate studies.
  • US citizen or permanent resident

Application Process Documents

To be considered, applicants must submit the following documents to the McNair Scholars Program Office:

  • Application form
  • 500 Word Essay
  • Copy of current ERAU transcript
  • Copy of transcripts from schools previously attended
  • Three letters of recommendation from faculty members

To learn more about this program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, continue through the website via link at the upper left side of the page, and/or contact Olga Diaz at (928) 777-6935 or email her.

McNair Scholars Cohort 2009

Whether or not you reach your goals in life depends entirely on how well you prepare for them and how badly you want them. You're eagles! Stretch your wings and fly to the sky. -Dr. Ronald E. McNair, Challenger Astronaut and Physicist

ERAU's McNair program may be for you!

The ERAU McNair Scholars Program is a Federally Funded TRIO Program

For More Information Contact:

Douglas Harder
Program Director
Phone: 928-777-3860

Ms. Olga Diaz
Program Coordinator
Phone: 928-777-6935

ERAU - Building 17

Email us McNair Scholars Office
or visit the McNair Scholars Website

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