McNair Scholars Program
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McNair Scholars Program

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About the Program

The Cal Poly Pomona McNair Scholars Program prepares eligible undergraduate students for PhD programs by promoting student success through undergraduate research, faculty mentorship, and a series of skill building workshops. The program aims to increase the number of first-generation, low-income and/or underrepresented students in PhD programs, and eventually, to increase diversity among faculty at higher education institutions across the country.

McNair Scholars are provided with opportunities to participate in research activities during the academic year and summer. Scholars attend our McNair Course (CPU 4750 and CPU 4760), seminars and workshops on topics related to graduate school preparation, conduct research under the guidance of a faculty mentor, and have the chance to present their research at conferences.

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Recruitment is now open

Recruitment for the 2025-26 academic year is now open. Please refer to the Application page to learn more about the process and eligibility requirements.
Learn more about the Application Process
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McNair office has moved!

We are now located in Building 98, Rooms 6, 8, & 9. Stop by and say hello!
Contact mcnair@cpp.edu
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Working with a Faculty Mentor

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Completing a Research Project or Paper

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Preparing for Graduate Level Studies

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Mentoring High School Students

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Stipend upon Completion of Internship Requirements

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December 2024

February 2025

  • The eligibility form is due by February 1st, 2025.

March 2025

  • Full application and supporting documents are due by Monday, March 10, 2025.

March 2025

  • Interviews for candidates will be held during March 2025

April 2025

  • The mandatory New Scholar Orientation will be held in April 2025.

May 2024

  • The mandatory New Scholar Bootcamp will be held in May 2025.
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Contact Us!

McNair Scholars Program

Location: Building 98, 6-8 & 9

Telephone: (909) 869 - 3381

E-mail: mcnair@cpp.edu

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Ronald E. McNair

Ronald E. McNair

Before you can make a dream come true, you must first have one. - Ronald E. McNair
Learn about Ronald E. McNair
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Support McNair Scholars

If you would like to support the McNair Scholars Program, please use the form below.
Donate Now
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Support Emerging Scholars

The Emerging Scholars Scholarship is dedicated to helping low-income, first-generation students, who are entering Cal Poly Pomona from high school. 
Learn more about the Scholarship