Courses

The Honors Program offers a variety of courses that feature content and instructional methods that challenge the students, provide a more active role for the student in the learning process, and emphasize understanding more than factual information.

Many courses are "variants" of courses in the University's General Education Program (G.E.P.) (PSYC 151 Honors: General Psychology instead of PSYC 150 General Psychology). The Honors "variants" allow students to complete their general education requirements in smaller classes with an atmosphere geared to the needs of high ability students.

Click here for a complete listing of Honors variants.

Seminars

For juniors and seniors, Honors seminars provide unique environments and opportunities for learning. The seminars are interdisciplinary and study a subject in depth. Some have been travel study experiences. Recent seminar offerings include: The Student of the University; The Literature of the Other; Zen Theory and Practice; Medieval Life; and Mythology as Sacred Geography.

Click to view a complete listing of Honors seminars.

Thesis

In lieu of one seminar, Honors students have the opportunity of completing a senior thesis. The Honors thesis is an endeavor that normally spans a year in its preparation and presentation. The thesis or project is a capstone requirement and therefore must represent visible evidence of accomplishment in a discipline or area of inquiry. It may be a research document, case study, video, performance, art exhibit, or other endeavor that demonstrates a competence beyond the requirements in the major field.

The purpose of the thesis is to provide students with an opportunity to do independent and in-depth work in the discipline or area of interest with the help of faculty mentors. One benefit is that it may prepare the student for graduate school or professional employment. The thesis can provide evidence of the student's ability to design, develop, and complete an extended piece of scholarship or activity typical of an academic discipline.

Click here to view and download the Thesis Proposal form.