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Political Science

Honors Requirements

Why should you undertake the challenge of writing an honors thesis?

Graduating with honors tells future employers and educators that you have undertaken a major research project with minimal guidance from faculty and followed it through to the end. It shows that you can do more than follow instructions and do well on bluebook examinations; it attests to your critical and organizational abilities in a convincing way.

Introduction to the PS Honors Program

Honors Program Eligibility

The honors program spans from the spring term of a student’s junior year to the spring term of their senior year. GPA minimums must be maintained to participate.

  • Minimum class standing: Junior – 90.00 credits earned or more.
  • Minimum GPA requirements: PS major GPA: 3.7 and UO GPA 3.5

The department will hold an information session during spring term. Details are to be announced via the political science majors email list.

Ready to Get Started?

Review the program timeline: Honors Program Timeline and Agreement

The honors application process begins the spring prior to senior year. Students applying for the honors program will need to fill out the Intent to Enroll form below by Friday of Finals week in spring term. The department office will check your eligibility after spring grades are submitted.

Intent to Enroll Form

Philo Sherman Bennett Prize

Students who successfully complete a political science honors thesis may have their thesis nominated by their faculty advisor for the Philo Sherman Bennett Prize. This $750 prize is awarded to the writer of an exemplary political science honors thesis and is announced at the Honors Reception.

Past winners include: