What is an Honors College?
Melina, here
As application season is right around the corner, I think it is helpful to learn about what an honors college is, and the ways that it can elevate your college experience.
As an alum of Vanderbilt's College Scholars Program (College of Arts & Sciences), I can attest to the enhanced college experience that comes from being part of an honors program. I took a course with a professor who later became my mentor, helping me both figure out what I wanted to study and guiding me through my graduate school applications. I took courses that were completely out of my comfort zone, like one in Physics and another studying Dante's Divine Comedy in both Italian and English (I don't speak any Italian...). I gained invaluable friendships with people I would not have crossed paths with otherwise....
All that to say... it is definitely something worth considering when you think about schools!
I've decided to break down everything you should know about honors colleges to help you in your journey.
What is an Honors College?
Honors colleges and programs offer an enhanced learning experience for students who are ready to take on more challenging coursework and want to make the most of their college years. Here’s the breakdown:
Honors Colleges: These are like specialized schools within a larger university. They have their own funding, facilities, faculty, and exclusive courses tailored for honors students. Think of it as a university within a university, offering a more focused and resource-rich environment.
Honors Programs: These function more like academic tracks. They don’t have their own separate buildings but offer specialized courses and extracurricular activities. Managed by individual departments, these programs still provide the opportunity to graduate with honors and enjoy a more challenging academic experience.
What Makes Honors Colleges Stand Out?
Rigorous Coursework: Honors colleges offer more challenging courses that push students to excel academically.
Smaller Class Sizes: They allow for a more personalized learning experience with smaller class sizes, which can facilitate better interaction with professors and peers.
Distinguished Faculty: Oftentimes, honors colleges have their best professors as both teachers and mentors for students.
Exclusive Resources: They provide access to specialized facilities, libraries, and research labs that are reserved for honors students.
Research and Internships: Students can in unique research projects and secure top-tier internships, enhancing your academic and professional portfolio.
Honors Housing: Many honors colleges offer dedicated housing, creating a strong community of like-minded students.
Priority Registration: Get early access to course registration, ensuring you can enroll in the classes you need and want.
What are some key characteristics of TOP honors colleges?
The best honors colleges share several important features:
Academic Excellence: They are known for their challenging and high-quality academic programs.
Successful Alumni: Graduates of these colleges often go on to achieve success in their careers and further studies.
Comprehensive Support: These colleges provide extensive support services, including academic advising and career counseling, to help students achieve their goals.
Innovative Opportunities: From study abroad programs to leadership workshops, top honors colleges offer unique opportunities for growth and learning.
Engaged Community: A vibrant student community that fosters collaboration, innovation, and personal growth.
How do you become a member of an honors college?
This is totally school specific. For some schools you apply, for others they admit you - be sure to look into this for each school you are considering!
What are some honors colleges to consider?
1. University of Georgia - Morehead Honors College
Honors Enrollment: 2,800
Honors % (of student body): 9%
SAT (Average): 1506
ACT (Average): 34
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 9 courses
Senior Thesis: Offered
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
2. Penn State University - Schreyer Honors College
Honors Enrollment: 1,800
Honors % (of student body): 4.3%
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 35 credits
Senior Thesis: Required
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
3. Texas A&M University - University Honors
Honors Enrollment: 2,000
Honors % (of student body): 3.5%
SAT (Average): 1360
ACT (Average): 28
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 30
Senior Thesis: Required
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
4. University of Connecticut Honors Program
Honors Enrollment: 2,300
Honors % (of student body): 12.1%
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 24
Senior Thesis: Required
Priority Registration: Required
Honors Housing: Yes
5. Arizona State University - Barrett Honors College
Honors Enrollment: 7,200
Honors % (of student body): 11%
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 36
Senior Thesis: Offered
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
6. Clemson University - Clemson Honors College
Honors Enrollment: 1,800
Honors % (of student body): 8%
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 18
Senior Thesis: Offered
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
7. Rutgers University - Honors College
Honors Enrollment: 2,000
Honors % (of student body): 5.5%
SAT (Average): 1490
ACT (Average): 33
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 8 courses
Senior Thesis: Offered
Priority Registration: No
Honors Housing: Yes
8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Honors Carolina
Honors Enrollment: 1,000
Honors % (of student body): 9.4%
SAT (Average): 1463
ACT (Average): 33
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 27 credits
Senior Thesis: Offered
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
9. University of South Carolina - Honors College
Honors Enrollment: 2,300
Honors % (of student body): 8.4%
SAT (Average): 1430-1520
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 45 credits
Senior Thesis: Required
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
10. Purdue University - John Martinson Honors College
Honors Enrollment: 3,263
Honors % (of student body): 8.6%
SAT (Average): 1388
ACT (Average): 31
Required Honors Credits/Courses: 24 credits
Senior Thesis: Required
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
11. University of Virginia - Echols Scholars Program
Honors Enrollment: 800
Honors % (of student body): 4.6%
Senior Thesis: Recommended
Priority Registration: Yes
Honors Housing: Yes
12. University of Michigan - LSA Honors
Honors Enrollment: 2,000
Honors % (of student body): 6.1%
Senior Thesis: Required
Priority Registration: No
Honors Housing: Yes
These are just SOME of the incredible honors options available to incoming students and applicants!
With smaller classes, dedicated faculty, and unique perks, you’ll be on the fast track to an exciting and rewarding college experience. So, if you’re ready to challenge yourself and make the most of your college years, keep honors programs and colleges in the back of your mind!
Best of luck,
Melina Kazanas
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