A year of independent study under the direction of a member or members of the Political Science faculty, to be awarded to the most distinguished candidate based upon competitive admissions. Candidates submit a research proposal to the department prior to May of their junior year. The successful candidate, designated the Sentinels of the Republic Scholar, receives a substantial research stipend to cover costs associated with the proposed project. The Sentinels Scholar may submit their essay for consideration for honors in Political Science. Admission is awarded on the basis of demonstrated capacity for distinguished work and on the proposal's promise for creative contributions to the understanding of topics on: the federal system of government; the American political economy; civil liberties; state, local, and federal relationships; or the philosophical foundations or problems of American constitutional democracy. Proposals that deal with these topics from a variety of perspectives (such as domestic, comparative, international, or philosophical) are welcome. Anyone with a prospective proposal should contact the department chair for further guidance.