McNair Program

Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program
216 in Rodli Hall

Purpose

The UWRF McNair Scholars Program provides an enriching educational experience for first-generation college students from low-income backgrounds, or members of a group that are historically underrepresented in graduate education and have demonstrated strong academic potential. Its purpose is to prepare undergraduates to become scholars with Ph.D.'s and participants in the program are referred to as McNair Scholars.

McNair Scholars participate in courses, seminars and workshops on topics related to graduate school preparation, complete a paid research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor, and have the opportunity to present their research at local, regional and national conferences. 

Eligibility

• Be interested in pursuing a research-based graduate degree
• Be a member of an eligible student population
• A First-Generation college student from a Low-Income background, or
• A member of a historically underrepresented group (self-identify as African-American; Hispanic/Latinx; Native American or Alaska Native; or Native Hawaiian or Native Pacific Islander)
• Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Have completed at least 45 academic credits
• Plan to be enrolled at UW-River Falls for at least two years 

Bridge to McNair Program

This non-committal program was created for first-year and sophomores enrolled at UW-River Falls and allows students to learn what it is like to be a McNair Scholar. The Bridge to McNair Program gives students the opportunity to explore more about research and graduate school.