The Southern Political Science Association is one of the oldest and largest political science organizations in the United States. Founded in 1929, its primary purposes are to publish a professional journal, to improve teaching, to promote interest and research in theoretical and practical political problems, to encourage communication and to develop standards of competence and respect between persons engaged in the professional study and practice of government and politics.

To support the above goals, the Association sponsors an Annual Conference and owns the Journal of Politics. The SPSA holds its Annual Conference in January of each year. It is one of the largest political science conferences in the United States presenting research in all major fields and subfields of political science.