If you want to pursue a doctorate and would like to conduct undergraduate research, see if you are eligible for Winthrop’s McNair Scholars Program. We offer support to pursue a doctorate, starting with a paid summer research internship ($2800 plus summer housing, meals, and free tuition for MCNR 300). Once selected, we work with each McNair participant to prepare them to conduct high quality research with a faculty mentor who holds a doctorate in a related field. Then, we support each McNair Scholar through the remainder their undergraduate career to help them with every step of finding, getting into, funding, and succeeding in doctoral programs. All majors are welcome. Winthrop McNair Scholars present their research at professional conferences and many have earned national awards for their presentations. Learn about our outstanding Scholars’ summer research projects here.
The deadline to ensure consideration this year is November 1. Applications and recommendations submitted after November 1 may be considered. To apply, complete and submit Parts 1 and 2 of the application and have two professional recommendations submitted on your behalf. All three components must be received for the application to ensure consideration for this year. Application details and links to the forms are below.
Are you eligible to be a Winthrop McNair Scholar?
If you are interested in Winthrop's McNair Scholars Program, but do not know if you are eligible, complete the online survey ASAP or e-mail mcnair@winthrop.edu to inquire about your eligibility.
Apply if you can say "yes" to all of the following.
*Visit the relevant Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) at this link and this link to see federal eligibility criteria and key definitions. The definitions below are quoted from CFR 647.3 and 647.7.
(1) A low-income individual who is a first-generation college student;
(2) A member of a group that is underrepresented in graduate education;
(3) A member of a group that is not listed in § 647.7 if the group is underrepresented in certain academic disciplines as documented by standard statistical references or other national survey data submitted to and accepted by the [U.S. Department of Education] Secretary on a case-by-case basis.
Eligible sophomores, juniors, and Seniors at Winthrop and other SC colleges and universities are encouraged to apply. In addition to Winthrop students, our program has served students at Clemson, College of Charleston, Columbia College, Limestone, and Wofford, so far.
To learn more about the program or your eligibility after you have reviewed this website, join one of our drop-in sessions or contact the program at mcnair@winthrop.edu. Please contact mcnair@winthrop.edu if you are interested in arranging or attending a Winthrop McNair info session. You can also learn about the program by checking out our program flyer.