Political Science

The National Political Science Honors Society

Pi Sigma Alpha is the national political science honor society which recognizes high academic achievement of students of political science. The purpose of Pi Sigma Alpha is to stimulate scholarship and interest in the subject of government by providing recognition and benefits to students who have excelled in the field. Pi Sigma Alpha chapters around the country develop creative programming on their campuses to engage members of the department and of the larger community.

Why Join Pi Sigma Alpha?

Pi Sigma Alpha membership is a worthy merit and a measure of academic achievement, which can provide an advantage when looking at life beyond the classroom. Joining Pi Sigma Alpha is also an opportunity to connect with other scholars who care about Political Science. Members have access to national scholarship funding opportunities, such as the McManus Washington Internship Scholarships and the Howard Penniman Scholarships for Graduate Study. Members are also invited to participate in the Graduate and Undergraduate Best Paper Awards competition and the annual National Research Conference. The Xi Gamma Chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha gives students the opportunity for valuable leadership experience as chapter officers or organizers of chapter activities. Additionally, members have the opportunity to wear special regalia cords for commencement. For more information, including national level internship, scholarship, and conference opportunities visit the national Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society's website.

Xi Gamma Activities

The West Chester Chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha was established in 2017. Our Chapter’s purpose is to recognize excellence in academic achievement by undergraduate and graduate students in the fields of political science, government, international and public affairs; to stimulate scholarship and interest in political science; to promote worthwhile curricular and extracurricular activities related to political science; to promote civil dialogue; and to engage in any other activities that further these purposes. The Chapter hosts various political science speakers to campus, assists the community in cultivating an interest in political science, and organizes events – such as the Spring Thesis Competition. Additionally, we support students attending nationally organized events, such as the Annual National Pi Sigma Alpha Research Conference.

How to Join

Undergraduate students are eligible for membership if they meet the following requirements:

• Cumulative GPA of 3.40 or higher
• Departmental GPA of 3.50 or higher
• Completion of at least 60 credits
• Completion of 5 classes in Political Science, two of which must be designated 300 or higher

To join, email TEasterling@wcupa.edu for an application or see the PSC website. Membership applications are due by March 1st for the Spring semester. The lifetime national membership fee is $35.00. Each new member receives a membership certificate.

Current officers: