"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."                                         - Ronald E. McNair, Ph.D.

Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaurate Achievement Program

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls McNair Program provides an enriching educational experience for eligible students interested in pursuing a research-based advanced degree; typically their Ph.D.

The McNair Program was established in commemoration of Ronald E. McNair, an African-American laser physicist and astronaut killed in the Challenger explosion.

The program is designed to prepare eligible undergraduate students in their pursuit of doctoral studies. McNair Scholars participate in courses, seminars, and workshops on topics related to graduate school preparation, conduct a funded research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor and have the opportunity to present their research at local, regional and national conferences.

To be eligible, a student must be: 

• A First-Generation college student from a Low-Income background, or
• A member of a historically underrepresented group (self-identify as African-American; Hispanic/Latino(a); Native American or Alaska Native; or a Native Hawaiian or Native Pacific Islander)

    View Eligibility page for more information.

The UW-River Falls McNair Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education TRIO Program.