McNair Research Scholars Program
Program Overview
The UCLA McNair Research Scholars Program was established at UCLA in 2003 as a two-year research-based intensive program that prepares undergraduate students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in the humanities or social sciences, to apply to, and excel in, the best graduate school programs in the country.
Each year, the program maintains a cohort of 26 juniors and seniors from a variety of disciplines in the Social Sciences and Humanities. The UCLA McNair program particularly attracts young scholars who are committed to social change and who use scholarship and research as a means to achieve social justice. The program applies Critical Race Theory to prepare participants to become change agents within academia and beyond, thus fulfilling the program’s motto: "Transform the Academy." Additionally, UCLA McNair Alumni work in a variety of professional positions that advance a social justice agenda.
Each year, the application process for the McNair Research Scholars Program opens early Fall quarter.
Program Curriculum
UCLA McNair Research Scholars complete a comprehensive and rigorous two-year academic program under the supervision of the Program Director, the Assistant Director, and at least two Graduate Mentors.
During their first year in the program, McNair Scholars participate in the UCLA Student Research Program (SRP) under the guidance of a faculty mentor, and attend weekly seminars designed specifically for the program. These seminars guide students through the process of developing their research methodology.
In the summer between their first and second year in the program, McNair Scholars participate in the six-week UCLA McNair Summer Research Institute. This six-week program includes: workshops and seminars on academic career opportunities; standardized test preparation; writing and research skills; writing a statement of purpose; obtaining letters of recommendation; and completing the graduate school application process. In addition, McNair Scholars begin their independent research projects and present their current findings at the UCLA Summer Symposium.
During their second year in the program, McNair Scholars apply to graduate school and complete, present, and publish their research project and senior thesis. Every Scholar has the opportunity to donate her or his research materials and senior thesis to the Southern California Library.
Contact Us
For more information about the program and/or the application process, please visit our office in 1202 Campbell Hall or contact the Assistant Director for the McNair Research Scholars Program, Erika Villanueva, at evillanueva@college.ucla.edu.
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