Benefis of Honors

Benefits of Honors: An Elevated College Experience

The Honors College is designed to help you get more out of your university experience—academically, professionally, and personally. As part of a close-knit community within a nationally recognized research university, you'll gain access to opportunities, mentorship, and experiences that help you stand out long after graduation.

Whether your goals include graduate school, medical school, law school, prestigious fellowships, or launching your career, Honors provides the resources and support to help you get there.

• Graduate with Distinction: Your hard work deserves to be recognized. Students who complete the Honors curriculum graduate with an Honors distinction noted on both their diploma and official transcript. Honors coursework is also designated on your transcript, which demonstrates your commitment to academic excellence and makes you stand out to employers and graduate schools alike.
• Learn in Smaller, More Engaging Classes: Honors courses are intentionally smaller, allowing you to build meaningful relationships with award-winning faculty and fellow students. Through discussion-based learning and collaborative problem solving, you'll engage more deeply with course material while receiving personalized mentorship from professors invested in your success.
• Register First Every Semester: As an Honors student, you'll register for classes on the first day of registration, giving you the best opportunity to build the schedule you want with the professors and class times that work best for you.
• Research, Scholarships & Academic Opportunities: Honors students are encouraged to explore opportunities beyond the classroom. From undergraduate research fellowships and faculty mentorship to exclusive Honors scholarships, you'll have access to experiences that strengthen your résumé and prepare you for competitive graduate programs and careers.
• Apply for 15+ Honors-exclusive scholarships
• Connect with faculty through undergraduate research
• Prepare for nationally competitive fellowships and awards
• Live and Learn Together: Beginning in 2026, first-year Honors students living on campus will join the Honors Living Learning Community in Maverick Hall. You'll live alongside students who share your academic drive while building friendships, study groups, and lasting connections from day one.
• Spaces Designed for Honors Students: The Carolyn A. Barros Reading Room (the "CAB") gives Honors students a dedicated place to study, collaborate, print for free, and connect with classmates. Honors students also enjoy extended library borrowing privileges, allowing books to be checked out for an entire semester.