This program is designed to prepare eligible Boston College undergraduates to pursue doctoral studies. Students are paired with faculty mentors and provided with research opportunities, a needs assessment, and workshops about the graduate school experience and application process. In addition, through the O'Neill library, students receive special library privileges, including graduate student borrowing status and an assigned librarian.
Major Program Components
Faculty Mentors
Each student is paired with a faculty member who serves as the student's mentor. Working closely with their mentor, and participating with them in local and regional conferences and research forums, students become exposed to the world of research and academia.
Research Opportunities
During the first year of program participation, students meet with his/her faculty mentor once per month to explore opportunities for research or assist in the faculty's current research project(s). During the second year (and third year, for those who enter the program as sophomores) students will develop and complete a research project with ongoing support from the faculty-mentor. Stipends are available during the research phase of program participation.
Graduate School Preparation
The McNair program assists students in all aspects of preparation for graduate school, including standardized test preparation, visiting and assessing graduate schools, and applying for financial aid and fellowships. In addition, a series of workshops supports students throughout the completion of their undergraduate degree.
How do I apply?
Applications for this two or three year program may be submitted during sophomore or junior year, and are available at 50 College Road, as a downloadable file (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0), or online.
Required, additional documents:
- Unofficial copy of your transcript
- Two letters of recommendation: one from a professor in you major (preferably) and the other from an employer, or a person who is not a family member
- Proof of income: a copy of last year’s tax forms from you or your parent (s)/guardian, or your student aid report (SAR) from FAFSA
- An essay of two pages or less describing:
- Your reasons for choosing to participate in the McNair Program
- Your plans after graduation in regards to furthering your education and your career goals
- How will the McNair Program help you fulfill your plans in regard to your education and career
- Your reasons for choosing to participate in the McNair Program