Scholars Programs

Raising the bar on your Cal State Monterey Bay experience and preparing you for the highest levels of success in graduate school and beyond.

There should be no limits to how far you can take your higher education journey. And at Cal State Monterey Bay, there won’t be. 

Opening New Doors of Opportunity and Scholarship

Our Scholars Programs are designed for motivated, academically accomplished students who are looking to take their education to greater heights.

Whether it’s conducting meaningful research and presenting your work at regional and national conferences or gaining hands-on business and hospitality industry experience at the country’s elite tourism destinations, our programs will set you apart in the eyes of top graduate schools and employers.

Providing a Lifetime of Value

As a graduate of any of our exceptional Scholars Programs, you’ll gain a lifetime of value and benefits, including:

  • Individualized mentorship from renowned faculty and professionals
  • Advanced course work and hands-on learning opportunities
  • Presentation and publication opportunities with national symposiums and journals
  • Scholarship funding to help offset your college expenses
  • Connections and networking with graduate schools and industry leaders

Distinctive Programs for Driven Students

Koret Scholars Program

The Koret Scholars Program is made possible through a gift from the Koret Foundation and offers funded undergraduate research opportunities in the social sciences.

Student giving presentation with poster

McNair Scholars Program

The McNair Scholars Program provides students with mentored research opportunities regardless of major, with an emphasis on first-generation students.

student doing experiment in lab

Pebble Beach Scholars Program

The Pebble Beach Scholars Program integrates the areas of tourism, operation management, sustainability, destination marketing and management at an elite destination.

Student checking in to play golf

Scholars Program Directors

Paige Viren

Paige Viren

Executive Director of Sustainable Hospitality Management Program

John Banks

John Banks

Director of Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center

Student giving a scientific presentation

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Our offices are located on the second floor of CSUMB’s Tanimura & Antle Family Memorial Library, Suite 2150. We’re open Monday to Thursday 9am – 4pm, or by appointment.

Apply For the Koret or McNair Scholars Programs

Apply to become a Koret or McNair Scholar today.

Scholars Programs

To learn more about our Scholar Programs, contact us at: