Special Opportunity Programs
Ronald McNair Program
This program, offered by the Department of African American Studies, aims to foster graduate education, especially in a doctoral program of study for first generation, low-income college students from under-represented groups (in particular, minorities, women and the physically challenged). To apply for this program, a student must be entering junior year with a 2.8 grade point average or better, must come from a low-income background and be a first-generation college student or member of a group under-represented in graduate education. For an application, please call 212.237.8760.
Honors Program
Open to entering freshmen, the John Jay College Honors Program seeks to provide cultural, social and academic opportunities to exceptionally motivated undergraduates. Eligible students will be invited to apply to the program prior to enrolling in their freshman year. Students admitted to the program will complete 30 credits of Honors course work in special honors sections of courses that fulfill the College’s general education requirements. Honors Program students write a senior thesis and are encouraged to present their honors research at a national conference. For an application, please call 212.237.8553.
Distinguished Students Program
The Distinguished Students Program is designed to support academically gifted students and to refine their leadership potential as public servants. The program provides participants with an enriched educational experience that incorporates service activities such as peer tutoring and mentoring as well as leadership training and research internships. Each year, approximately 20 entering freshmen are selected for entrance into the program. Distinguished students are offered two tuition-free courses each summer that are not open to the general college population. They also have priority scheduling for course registration and are eligible for on campus employment. For an application, please call 212.237.8553.
McCabe Fellowship
The McCabe Fellowship was created in memory of Gerry McCabe, a member of Ireland’s police force, the Garda Siochana, who was killed by the IRA in 1996. Each year, officers who have excelled in their profession are given the opportunity to excel academically at John Jay by participating in a compressed master’s degree program.