Awards, Scholarships and Research Grants

The Political Science Department annually presents two awards to students in the program.  These include the Award for Outstanding Graduating Senior and the Hoover Prize (for best presentation at the Political Science Association student conference).

    In addition to these awards, the department also offers declared PLSC majors several scholarships opportunities including:

    The Dozal Political Science Scholarship

    The purpose of the Dozal Political Science Scholarship is to provide support for students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Political Science Department, Political Science Major. Preference will be given to students with financial need. The annual award amount is $4,000.

    The Bill McDonald Memorial Scholarship

    One scholarship is available for a Political Science major to use during their time at WWU, who is planning to attend Graduate School.  Preference is given to those emphasizing public policy.  Typical award amount is $2,000.

    The Public Affairs Research Fund (PARF)

    One scholarship is available for a Political Science major to offer support while attending Western.  Equal merit/need is considered.  Typical award amount is $2,500

    The Ken Hoover Memorial Scholarship

    One scholarship is available to a Political Science major or a PPE major, second-year student (or 3rd or 4th), merit-based with need as a tie-breaker.  "Applicants should be inquisitive, excited by ideas, and civic/community minded."  Typical award amount is $2,000.

    The Clement Family Scholarship

    One scholarship is available to a full-time student majoring in political science with interest in public policy. Financial need will also be a consideration. Applicants are required to submit a one-page essay answering the following: "What are your career goals?  What are your interests in public policy and human (community) services, and how do you see these working together towards meeting your professional goals?" Typical award amount is $3,000.  Award not available for more than two consecutive years.

    To Apply

    Application Deadline for all Political Science Scholarships is the third Friday in April.

    The department typically accepts applications for scholarships during the Spring quarter. 

    To apply for a Department Scholarship, please use the general Scholarship Application Form.

    All applications should be submitted by email to Department Manager Erica Steele (Erica.Steele@wwu.edu).  For additional information, please contact the Political Science department (AH415) at politicalscience@wwu.edu

     

     Apply Here

    More Scholarships

    CHSS Scholarships

    The College of Humanities and Social Sciences also offers several scholarships.

    Scholarship Center

    The university offers a number of scholarship programs that are not restricted to a specific major, department or college through the Scholarship Center.

    Research Awards

    Public Affairs Research Fund

    The Political Science department has PARF funding available to support undergraduate majors.  Funds can be used for student field trips and conference participation. The maximum amount of the award is $250 with no more than 50% of a project funded.  Funding limited to one conference.  To request the funds, the student must submit a written proposal in advance of the activity including a proposed budget.  The proposal should be 1) sponsored by a faculty member in the department who is responsible for the terms of the award and 2) approved by the Budget Committee and majority of the department.  Requests should be submitted to Erica Steele via email at steelee@wwu.edu with necessary attachments. 

    Research and Creative Opportunities for Undergraduate Students

    Through the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, students can apply for support to engage in scholarly/creative work in their disciplines.  Any registered undergraduate in good standing may apply. Grants will normally be awarded in the range of $100 - $500 per project.