What is the Du Bois Scholars Program?
The Du Bois Scholars Program seeks to honor and uplift academic excellence through research-based collaboration with Harvard and HBCUs. Our mission is to create opportunities for HBCUs students to experience a unique and expansive summer research program with a mentor Harvard faculty member.
Who is eligible to apply?
Rising Juniors and seniors in good academic standing, enrolled in one of the 18 partner R2 and research based HBCUs, may apply.
How do I apply?
Eligible students may click Apply Now on our website and complete all components to be considered for the summer research program.
What is the duration of the program?
The Du Bois Scholars Program will commence with move-in on June 5th and last 9 weeks with a final presentation of research on August 8th. Scholars must fully move out of campus housing no later than noon on August 10th.
What are the benefits of participating?
As the inaugural cohort of Du Bois Scholars, participants will have the opportunity to establish a foundation for a life-long network of academic colleagues, develop friendships and the professional guidance of a mentor from Harvard’s faculty. An undergraduate researcher will benefit from these invaluable resources and experience exponential professional growth.
Is there a cost associated with the program?
There is no cost to apply to or attend the Du Bois Scholars Program. All scholars will receive a $5,000 stipend for living expenses, and the program will cover room + board, as well as one round-trip ticket to and from Cambridge, MA.
What fields of research are available?
There are a range of research areas in various disciplines offered by the program. You may access a full list of mentor faculty members and their disciplines.
How are participants selected?
A committee will review all completed applications submitted by 11:59pm on March 11th. Each component will be evaluated using a rubric and candidates will be invited to an interview with a faculty member.
Finalists will be notified of their acceptance no later than April 5, 2024. All scholars must accept or decline the invitation to attend by April 12, 2024.
Are there opportunities for networking and mentorship?
Yes, there will be networking events, interactions with Harvard faculty and alumni; and presentations to support the extended study of Du Bois Scholars.
Can international students apply?
Applicants who are eligible to matriculate at U.S. universities with a valid student visa are open to apply.
What resources and facilities will be available to participants?
Scholars will have access to various resources, labs, and facilities during the program.
Will participants receive any certifications or credits?
We cannot offer credit for coursework completed during the summer program.
Can I participate in the program remotely?
All participants must remain on campus for the 9-week program.
What support services are available for participants?
In addition to support and training from Harvard faculty and project teams, Du Bois Scholars will receive support and check-ins with the Director and H&LS staff throughout the 9-week program. Scholars will also have a residential proctor for all housing-related concerns.
Are there opportunities for highlighting research outcomes?
At the conclusion of the 9-week summer program, participants will present their findings to a panel of Harvard faculty, including their mentors, H&LS staff, and special invited guests. As a member of the Du Bois Scholar Program community, participants will have the opportunity to attend and present at conferences at a future date.
How can alumni stay connected after the program?
As the inaugural cohort of Du Bois Scholars, you will have the opportunity to share ideas and create the foundation for a network of alumni and future Du Bois Scholars.
What COVID-19 precautions are in place?
All safety measures or contingency plans in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic will be adhered to based on the current university guidelines.
Who can I contact for more information?
Send questions to Shahara C. Jackson, Program Director, HBCU Strategic Initiatives at hlos_duboisscholars@harvard.edu
Can I work part-time or attend other commitments while participating in the program?
Du Bois Scholars are expected to collaborate with their mentor faculty to develop a working schedule for the 9-week program.
Are there opportunities for collaborative research projects among participants?
Depending on the stated outcomes of faculty mentors, Du Bois Scholars may collaborate and publish their research at the end of the program.
How will participants be informed about program updates and announcements?
Stay tuned to the website for program updates and announcements. We will communicate with finalists via email directly.
What is the structure of the daily schedule during the program?
Depending on the faculty mentor’s expectations, an overview of a typical day, including research activities, workshops, and any extracurricular events participants can expect will vary. Scholars should expect to be engaged during the week from approximately 9am-5pm. There will also be activities on select weekends.
