The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program was established by the U.S. Department of Education in 1986. The Program, named for astronaut and Challenger space shuttle crew member, Dr. Ronald E. McNair, encourages students to pursue graduate studies. At California State University, Fullerton, McNair Scholars Program accommodates twenty students each year.
All students participate in academic-year and summer activities until they graduate.
McNair Scholars are motivated students who have both the desire and the potential to earn a doctorate degree. The majority of the program participants are either first-generation college students or are members of a group underrepresented in graduate education. By participating in the program, Scholars increase and refine their academic skills and learn the tools necessary to be successful in graduate schools.