Special Programs and Opportunities

Our programs allow students to engage in different facets of political science outside the classroom.

Experiential learning: Internships

Every political science major completes four credits of experiential learning. In addition to the Washington Honors Semester, a number of local options are available in consultation with your academic advisor and help from the Boerigter Center for Calling and Career. These include, but are not limited to:

• State senators and representatives
• Governor's internship program
• Professional law corporations
• County governments (including Muskegon County)
• Ready for School
• Ottawa County Juvenile Detention Center
• Citizens Research Council of Michigan
• Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates
• Mediation Services
• 70x7 Life Recovery
• Congressional Leadership Fund

“The internship gave me freedom to complete projects independently. This helped me to develop skills as a professional that will be useful for my career after I graduate.”
—Katie Kolker, Intern at Ready for School

Student-Faculty Research

Collaborative research between students and faculty is an important part of your political science education and indicates our strong focus on establishing one-on-one relationships with our majors. Student-faculty collaborative research is available during each semester and the summer.

Many students work on such projects as:

• Papers to be presented at the annual American Political Science Association conference and other events
• Research for professors writing a grant proposal or a book
• Tasks relating to the administration of the department

If you are interested in conducting research through the political science department, please consult with your advisor.

Departmental Awards

Each year, awards are presented to students who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, possess qualities of character and show promise of a useful career in public service. View political science awards.

Washington Honors Semester

Washington Honors Semester combines the intimacy of the Hope classroom with exhilaration of one of the most globally engaged cities in the world. Learn more about internships and life in Washington, D.C.

Pre-Law Society

The Pre-Law Society is a student-led group that is very active in preparing students for careers in law. It is open to all students with an interest — casual or serious — in law or in pursuing a legal career.

Pi Sigma Alpha

Eta Kappa is Hope’s chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science honors society. Join Pi Sigma Alpha.