SCampus Student Guidebook

Academic Resources

McNair Scholars

Dean Campbell
(213) 740-8702
(213) 740-9048 (FAX)
Grace Ford Salvatori 315
Email: cecildec@usc.edu
www.usc.edu/mcnair

The McNair Scholars Program prepares high-achieving USC undergraduates for graduate and post-graduate study. During the annual Summer Research Institute program, 20 scholars participate in a research project under the guidance of a USC faculty mentor.

The program provides a $2,800 research stipend to allow the scholars to concentrate on their research. At the conclusion of the 10-week program, each scholar presents their findings to their peers, faculty mentors and a panel of USC faculty members who evaluate their presentations. A 15-20 page paper outlining their research efforts and findings is due at the end of the program. Scholars who participate in the Summer Research Institute program may receive funding to present their research at student and professional conferences or to visit graduate programs around the United States.

The program also features campus-based educational enrichment activities designed to broaden the scholars’ understanding of graduate education and research; to strengthen their computer and library skills; to bolster GRE test-taking skills; and to assist them with successful entry into the graduate program of their choice. Activities are specifically designed to encourage students who plan academic careers.

The McNair Scholars Program is a federally funded TRIO project, named in honor of the astronaut, Ronald E. McNair, who died in the 1986 Challenger Space Shuttle explosion. The USC Office of Undergraduate Programs, Office of the Provost, administers the program.

To meet eligibility requirements, students must be full-time USC students with a minimum 2.7 GPA, first generation college students from a low-income background or members of an ethnic group that is underrepresented in graduate education.