Background: Congress created the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation in 1986 to encourage future and current secondary school teachers of American history and government.
The Scholarships: Up to $24,000 to support up to two years of full-time study for prospective teachers (“junior fellows”) who wish to earn their master’s degree in history or political science or a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). Madison Fellowships are also available for current teachers (“senior fellows”) for up to five years of part-time study for the same degrees. One junior and senior fellow are appointed in each state. Fellows must take at least 12 semester hours in topics related to the United States Constitution.
Application: The application consists of an information form about personal background and activities; brief essays explaining why the applicant wants to teach American history or politics; significant activities that have inspired the given career decision; the proposed course of graduate study; recent reading; and an essay on the importance of the U.S. Constitution.
Who Should Apply: History and political science majors with good grades (3.5 in the major) who are earning teacher certification in social studies and who wish to earn a master’s degree (the Madison does not fund doctoral studies) before beginning their teaching career.
References: Two from faculty members or administrators who can discuss the applicant’s potential for and commitment to a career teaching American history or government, potential for graduate study, and depth of perception, and a third recommendation from someone outside the university who can evaluate the character and public service of the candidate.
For More Information: Visit the Madison Fellowship website.