FAQs
Why should I become a PSA member?
Pi Sigma Alpha is the Political Science Honor Society at the University of Notre Dame. Members enjoy special recognition of their excellence within the department, concluding in a commencement ceremony. Membership in PSA shows your commitment to your major in addition to your high achievement. Members have exclusive access to opportunities for special events, community service, and networking with professors and other top students. Please consult our statement of purpose, and our list of recent and upcoming events.
How do I join?
Membership is offered through invitation only from the Department of Political Science. It is offered twice a year -- in the beginning of the fall and spring semesters -- to juniors and seniors who meet the requirements. Please consult our membership requirements. Once you have been invited to join, you must pay a one-time membership fee of $45 to be considered an official member.
How do I know if I'm eligible?
Membership is offered by invitation from the Political Science Department in both the spring and fall semesters. It depends on credit hours and GPA. Eligible students will receive an offer though email. If you have questions or concerns about your eligibility status, please contact us at ndpsa@nd.edu.
How much does it cost to join?
The membership fee for PSA is currently $45. Once you have paid this amount, you are an official member in both the Notre Dame PSA chapter and the national chapter.
Where does that money go?
The membership dues go to both the national PSA association and to the Notre Dame chapter. The national PSA requires a $30 fee per student in order to become an official member. This is a one-time fee, so once you have paid it, you remain a member for life. The remaining $15 goes to the Notre Dame chapter in order to fund various events throughout the year, and to provide the refreshments offered at each meeting.
If I can't afford the dues, can I still join?
PSA understands that some students may have some financial difficutlies that would prevent them from paying the membership fee. The Notre Dame chapter has a limited number of scholarships available to students with demonstrated financial need. Please email ndpsa@nd.edu to discuss aid opportunities. All information will remain confidential.
What are the requirements once a member?
Each member has to join a committee, and complete a 10 hour requirement for the whole year (5 hours if you go abroad for a semester). These 10 hours include 5 hours in committee meetings and 5 hours helping with or attending PSA events.
How do I become an officer?
During the spring semester, PSA will hold elections. Candidates will say some words at a PSA general meeting and then all members will vote. If you have any questions about a particular officer position, feel free to email any of our officers!
I've already paid my dues, how long do I remain a member?
Once you have paid the one-time membership fee, you remain a member with Notre Dame until you graduate, and a national member for life.
What scholarships are available to PSA members?
Click here for more information.
What does PSA do?
Click here for information about upcoming events, and recaps of past events.
I have a question that wasn't answered here. Please email ndpsa@nd.edu with any additional questions. We are happy to help!