Many of our undergraduate students assist our world-renowned faculty on their research, or design and pursue their own research projects. There are two different degree options for those conducting independent research:
Honors Research Distinction in Political Science. With or without an Honors Contract, a student may elect to pursue an independent research project leading to the BA with Honors Research Distinction. An overall GPA of 3.4 is required and the major point-hour ratio must be at least 3.5. Students must take a minimum of three (3) hours in Political Science 4999H. Additional requirements and procedures are described on the ASC Honors Program website.
Research Distinction in Political Science. Students who are not enrolled in the Honors program may graduate with Research Distinction by writing a thesis. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, and students must take at least four (4) hours in Political Science 4999. Additional requirements and procedures are described on the ASC graduation webpage.
Additional Opportunities
Present at the Denman Undergraduate Research Forum
The annual Denman Undergraduate Research Forum provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to share their research with members and friends of the Ohio State community. Check the Office for Undergraduate Research & Creative Inquiry website for more information.
Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP)
The Ohio State University has partnered with the Big Ten Academic Alliance to offer the Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP) to minority undergraduate students who plan to pursue graduate school and research-focused careers. The Program assigns mentors to each student as they work through an intensive research course load.
The Big Ten Academic Alliance is comprised of the Big Ten member universities and the University of Chicago. The schools work with one another to "advance their academic missions, generate unique opportunities for students and faculty, and serve the common good by sharing expertise, leveraging campus resources, and collaborating on innovative programs". The Program is funded by the provosts of each member university. To learn more, please visit the Big Ten Academic Alliance website.