Department of Political Science
Pi Sigma Alpha
The
National Political Science Honor Society
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Pi Sigma Alpha is the national Political Science Honor Society. Founded at the University of Texas in 1920, Pi Sigma Alpha has grown into one of the largest and most distinguished nonor societies in the United States. Of the 59 honor societies in the Association of College Honor Societies, Pi Sigma Alpha currently ranks 5th in size with over 435 chapters. It is estimated that by the end of 1995, there should be approximately 450 chapters, making it the third largest in the country. (Pi Sigma Alpha Newsletter, Vol. 4, No. 1)
Membership in the UNCG chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha (Sigma Xi) is open to Political Science majors and double majors. Seniors wishing to join must have an overall 3.0 GPA and a 3.0 GPA in their political science courses. Juniors must have an overall GPA of 3.25 and a 3.25 GPA in their political science classes.
For full membership, students must have at least 15 hours in political science courses, with 6 hours being at the 300-level or above. The initiation fee is $40 and includes membership in the National Pi Sigma Alpha organization, membership in the local chapter, and the Annual Banquet held in the spring.
Associate membership is open to Juniors and Seniors with a 3.0 GPA who are enrolled in at least one political science course. The initiation fee for associate membership is $15 and includes membership in the local Pi Sigma Alpha Chapter and the Annual Banquet. Associate members are not members of the National Honor Society. However, they may hold office in the local chapter. Upon completion of 15 hours of political science courses and maintaining the appropriate GPA, they will become eligible for membership in the National Honor Society.
Every year, in the spring, Pi Sigma Alpha sponsors a banquet for its members, at which noted public, political, or academic speakers address students and faculty, and students are recognized for their achievements.
Pi Sigma Alpha paraphernalia
Ordering information for the Pi Sigma Alpha Medallion (featured in the logo at the top of this page and suitable for wearing at commencement with your cap and gown) coffee mug, and jewelry (keys, pins, tie tacks) is available from:
Pi Sigma Alpha
National Office
1527 New Hampshire Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
(202) 483-2512