Honors FAQ
What programs does the Honors College offer?
University Honors
Students in the first and second year of study pursue a course of study leading to University Honors distinction. This is achieved when students complete 24 honors credits: at least 18 in general education courses and at least 3 in a major or minor field. Students select from about 50 honors sections of general education courses offered by the college each semester. In addition University Honors students must complete 40 hours of community service and designated cultural, intellectual, and leadership activities.
Departmental Honors
Once students have declared their major, they may pursue departmental honors, leading to distinction in the major or minor. Departmental honors requires 12 credits of honors coursework in the major or minor including the senior thesis/project. These credits are typically arranged by Honors College advisory faculty in the academic departments.
Highest Honors recognizes students who satisfy both the university and departmental honors requirements.
How do I get into the Honors College?
You need to apply. Download an application pdf file or application doc file.
What are the admission requirements?
The admissions committee looks at a variety of factors that point toward a student's fitness for advanced work. The admissions application includes test scores, GPA, personal statement essay, letters of recommendation, and community service. High GPA and ACT scores are especially important, but the admission is made through an assessment of the entire student.
Can transfer students be admitted to the College?
Yes. Transfer and second bachelor's degree students can be admitted if they have a GPA of at least 3.3, as well as other indicators that point toward fitness for advanced work. They must also have at least 15 college-level credit hours.
Can I major in anything and be in the Honors College?
Yes. Students in all departments at EMU can be in the Honors College. The College and departmental faculty have worked out honors programs for all majors at EMU.
Can I pursue a double major in the Honors College?
Yes. The Honors College has worked out honors programs for many students with double majors. The College encourages students to pursue double majors if these suit their educational goals.
Does it cost more to be in the Honors College?
No. Regular university fees apply to all honors courses and programs.
Are honors courses harder than regular courses?
Honors sections of general education courses are suited to the abilities of intellectually gifted and motivated students. They are smaller than the norm. Material is covered in more depth at a faster pace. There’s more student participation. Honors students take honors sections because they prefer them. It's worth noting that the average GPA in the Honors College is 3.75.
Are all my courses honors courses?
No. You will take honors sections of regular courses and honors enhancements of upper level courses, but you will take regular courses as well. You and your advisors will work out the program that best suits your specific needs.
Who will advise me about honors decisions?
You will work with advisors from both the Honors College and your department. Until you declare a major, your advisor in the Honors College will help you with honors requirements. After you declare a major, you will develop a plan for honors study with your departmental advisor. Your Honors College advisor will approve your overall academic plan, making sure you meet honors requirements.
Can I live in an honors dorm?
Yes.The Honors dorm is Downing Hall for first and second year students. Upper level honors students can live in an honors building in the Village residence hall complex.
Is there special financial aid available to honors students?
Honors students receive many of the university's merit-based scholarships. In addition, the Honors College awards many special fellowships and grants to support undergraduate research, study abroad, the senior thesis, and conference travel.
Will being in the Honors College help me get a job or get into graduate school?
The honors experience at EMU is excellent academic training within a diverse, creative community of professors and talented students. It is superb preparation for a career and graduate school.