Program Benefits

Educational and Financial Benefits

$2,800 Research Stipend

Each scholar is awarded a $2,800 research stipend. The stipend is disbursed in three installments during the academic year.

Research Class Tuition Waiver and Course Credit

A research class is held during Spring semester for which scholars receive thee elective credit hours. Scholars also receive a tuition waiver for the class [scholars are responsible for fees only]. The class covers quantitative and qualitative research processes as well as numerous aspects important to conducting scholarly research.

Workshops

During Fall semester, workshops are held for McNair scholars only. Topics include financial aid and funding a graduate education; GRE preparation; numerous aspects of the graduate school application process, including CV and Personal Statement development as well as interviewing skills; business etiquette; and using library resources for graduate level research.

Graduate Level Research and Faculty Mentoring

Scholars are paired with a faculty mentor in their chosen field of study with whom they design and complete a research project.

Personal Mentoring

The McNair Scholars Program employs a graduate student mentor that provides academic advising, career counseling, and guides scholars through the process of attaining a doctoral degree.

Graduate Entrance Exam Preparation

Preparatory workshops are offered to McNair Scholars for the GRE and GMAT exams. Need-based GRE fee waivers may be given by the Financial Aid Department as well.

Graduate School Application Fee Waivers and Incentives

McNair Scholars may qualify to receive application fee waivers to many graduate programs across the country. There are typically additional incentives for McNair scholars, including tuition waivers and scholarship packages. If a student is applying to a graduate degree program at Sam Houston State University, the graduate application fee will be waived. The application must be accompanied by a letter from the McNair Director verifying the student's participation in the program.

Paid Travel for Graduate School Visits

Paid travel is provided for McNair Scholars wishing to visit graduate programs at both in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities.

Laptop Computers

Laptop computers are loaned to all McNair scholars wishing to borrow a computer while they are in the program. Laptops are continually updated with the latest software and SPSS!

Lending Library

The McNair program has several helpful books on graduate school, writing, exam preparation, and other materials that may be checked out.

Tutoring

If needed the McNair program will attempt to provide or locate tutoring services for scholars.

Contact the McNair office at mcnair@shsu.edu for more information