Take Advantage of your Opportunities

MSU Denver Model UN students pose with a dragon statue

We want you to get involved so you can expand your knowledge, skillset, and grow your network. 

The Department of Political Science offers academic and scholarship opportunities–from help with tuition to Model UN, student organizations, research and lab experiences and more.

We also hosts a variety of panels and lecture series, and special events, that provide both an intellectual experience beyond the halls of any particular classroom or campus, as well as social events to foster a strong sense of community. From election watch parties to high profile academic speakers from the U.S. and abroad, opportunities for engaging in politics abound. Keep your eye on your inbox for notices from the Chair, or check out announcements on the Department’s Facebook page.

On this page, find brief descriptions on all opportunities, then get information on how to get involved and visit relevant websites and resources.

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Student Organizations

Become Involved. Be Recognized. Foster Change.

The Department of Political Science has two student organizations you can join to meet people, develop your leadership skills, and grow your network. Consider becoming a member of Pi Sigma Alpha (ΠΣΑ), the MSU Denver Student Chapter of the National Political Science Honor Society and/or the Political Science Association (PSA) early on during your academic journey.

Pi Sigma Alpha (ΠΣΑ)

Students who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement in the political science program are welcome to apply to become a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the MSU Denver Student Chapter of the National Political Science Honor Society. The Department provides membership dues and honor cords at graduation.

Political Science Association (PSA)

PSA is a student organization that is united by a common purpose to narrow the gap between governments in all their multifaceted forms and the governed. It is our stated goal to increase social awareness, improve political participation and facilitate substantive discussions on meaningful issues. We want to inspire Auraria Campus’ student body to take action, voice their opinions and become involved in community life.

Students who participate in PSA should...

  • Become involved with governmental and non-governmental institutions
  • Network with influential figures in the community
  • Familiarize themselves with diverse political cultures
  • Become advocates for issues they deem important
  • Create a platform for discussion where both sides of every issue can have a voice
  • Facilitate understanding of issues that permeate both the domestic and international spheres.

Academic Opportunities

Engage in Activities. Deepen Understanding. Foster Connections.

The Department of Political Science offers many academic and co-curricular projects and activities (like Model UN to working in the Golda Meir Center for Political Leadership) which provides you with valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Two MSU Denver students shake the hand of Jim Mattis General, United States Marine Corps (Ret) & 26th Secretary of Defense

Model United Nations

Practice your diplomatic skills with the Model United Nations. Model UN students prepare for and travel to a conference each spring. Many also take advantage of the overlap with Model UN preparation and our International Organizations course (PSC 3330).

A student speak at a podium with four people standing behind them

Applied Political Research Lab

Learn and apply your critical thinking and analysis skills with the Applied Political Research Lab (PSC 409D). This 4000-level course offers students the opportunity to engage in real-world applied political research that impacts our state and community.

Political Science Student receiving his diploma.

Honors Program

Many of our students explore additional academic rigor and a build community within the Honors Program. MSU Denver’s Honors Program is a community of highly motivated and academically adventurous students and faculty members dedicated to working together to attain new levels of achievement.

Golda Meir House on Auraria Campus

The Golda Meir Center

The Golda Meir Center for Political Leadership provides programming and research opportunities for students. From its speaker series to a growing research arm (often in conjunction with our Applied Political Research Lab), the center fosters an intellectually engaged community within the Department.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The Department has several scholarship opportunities available to its majors and minors. These opportunities are specifically affiliated with the following opportunities for Political Science Majors or associated Minors.

Department Scholarship List

  • Political Science Outstanding Student Annual Scholarship which provides funding for one exceptional student majoring in Political Science who has demonstrated excellence in academic achievement.
  • The Christopher Lee Anderson Scholarship is now open to Political Science majors as well as other majors.  The Scholarship celebrates Anderson’s zeal for presenting the unbiased truth while dealing compassionately with those involved in the story.
  • Milroy A. Alexander Scholarships supports students who have a declared minor in public administration & public affairs at MSU Denver. Applicants must be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours and must demonstrate financial need.

Contact the Department of Political Science

Auraria Campus Location

King Center, Room – 498

Mailing Address

MSU Denver, Department of Political Science
Campus Box 43
P.O. Box 173362
Denver, CO. 80217-3362

Email

[email protected]

Office Hours

Monday-Friday
8:00 AM-5:00 PM