Honors Designations

Illinois State University recognizes Honors students for their accomplishments by designating all Honors credit on transcripts and grade reports with an "H" next to the Honors work completed. Students who choose to earn further recognition may complete requirements for one of the following designations.

Certificate in University Honors

1. 3.5 cumulative GPA
2. Four semesters participation in the Honors Program
3. A minimum of 12 hours of Honors coursework with grades of "A" or "B" (credit/no credit not acceptable) including an Honors Colloquium

Students should notify the Honors Office as soon as the requirements are met. The designation is recorded on the student's transcript and a certificate is awarded.

University Honors Scholar

1. 3.65 cumulative GPA
2. Four semesters participation in the Honors Program
3. A minimum of 24 hours of Honors coursework with grades of "A" or "B" (credit/no credit not acceptable) including two different Honors experiences from the following:
   • Honors Colloquium
   • Honors Undergraduate Research Participation (IDS 285, IDS 286)
   • Departmental Honors
   • Honors Mentorship

Applications for this designation must be submitted prior to the graduation semester. The designation is recorded on the student's transcript and diploma.

Departmental Honors

The requirements for Departmental Honors are specific to each major department. Requirements range across departments from taking a certain sequence of courses as Honors sections to writing and defending an Honors thesis as an Honors Independent Study. Specific Departmental Honors requirements for each major, as well as names of the current Departmental Honors coordinators, are available in the Honors Office.