Undergraduate Research FAQ

Point of Contact: 

Marilyn McMorrow, Director of Undergraduate Studies, mcmorrow@georgetown.edu; Joseph Hartman, Associate Director of Undergraduate Studies, jeh93@georgetown.edu

Philosophy of research:

Research in the Government Department relates to the exploration of politics, broadly defined. There are four general fields of study in the Department: Political Theory, American Government, Comparative Government, and international Relations. Some faculty members also pursue interdisciplinary research at the intersection of politics and other fields.

How to get started:

All our foundational courses familiarize students with the nature of research in those fields. In addition, many courses require detailed research projects. The required Departmental Seminar– which can be in a variety of substantive areas– requires significant research and writing.

How to get connected with a faculty mentor:

The student should explore the Department website and then reach out to a faculty member who does work in the area of the student’s interest. The student may also contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies or Associate Director of Undergraduate Studies for recommendations.

Earning credit for undergraduate research:

If a student takes a course that has a significant research component, such as a “Department Seminar” course, they will receive credit.

Getting paid for research:

Some faculty may hire undergraduate student research assistants. In some cases, the faculty member reaches out directly to students. In other cases, faculty may advertise the position on HoyaWorks.

Thesis or capstone research:

Research is required in the Departmental Seminar.