The Department of Political Science has established the Political Science Scholar Program to recognize the achievements and potential of a small number of our best students (approximately 20 per year).
The program provides each scholar with opportunities to enhance his or her undergraduate education including:
PLS Scholars are eligible to compete for paid positions as Undergraduate Research Assistants (URAs) for PLS faculty members. These typically span one semester. Interested students and faculty members should complete an application form and attach a research abstract (to be prepared by the faculty sponsor), statement (to be prepared by the student researcher), and PLS faculty nomination form. Applications are due April 15 for summer, May 15 for fall semester, and November 1 for spring semester research.
PLS scholars are eligible to compete for paid positions as Undergraduate Learning Assistants (ULAs) in our department course offerings. Students interested in being considered for positions should complete an application form and statement and ask a PLS faculty member to submit a nomination form on their behalf. Applications are due April 15 for summer, May 15 for fall semester, and November 1 for spring semester.
Both URA and URL applications require a faculty nomination form, which can be found here: Faculty Nomination Form
The Department of Political Science considers requests for other funding related to research activities, such as travel to academic conferences and costs associated with printing posters. Interested PLS Scholars should submit a statement detailing the nature of their requests, their qualifications for selection, and a proposed budget. Students should also ask a PLS faculty member to submit a nomination form on their behalf. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Political Science Scholars enjoy a brunch before graduation with their parents and faculty. Photography by Jackie Belden Hawthorne, College of Social Science.