Honors College · College
Honors College
Small classes, early research, dedicated advising — for high-achieving students in any major.
Field
Honors College
Programs listed
1
Degree levels
Bachelor's
STEM majors
—
Academics
Representative programs
Grouped by degree level. STEM-designated majors qualify for the 24-month OPT extension (36 months total).
Bachelor's1
- Honors track alongside your major
STEM labels follow the DHS list at the time of update; your advisor confirms the CIP code before you apply.
About this college
Honors College
If you're looking for an environment where highly motivated students grow together, where faculty know you as an individual rather than just a number, and where you can pursue deep learning while belonging to a close-knit community, the Honors College at A-State is well worth considering.
Live. Learn. Belong.
The Honors College is where you begin exploring who you are and are encouraged to reach new heights. The Honors College creates a learning environment where critical thinking, curiosity, discipline, and academic spirit are valued, while opening up distinctive opportunities for you to grow both inside the classroom and beyond campus.
It's a model that feels as close-knit as a small liberal arts community, while still being part of a large public university with abundant resources, activities, and opportunities to connect.
Why choose the Honors College?
Academics
- Interactive, discussion-based honors classes.
- Professors serve as mentors and academic partners.
- Students gain access to interdisciplinary research, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives.
- A learning environment designed for highly motivated learners who thrive on challenge.
Activities & Special Opportunities
- The Honors College Association connects students through trips, social events, and community service activities.
- Welcome Week, Homecoming, the Honors Lecture of the Year, and many other notable programs take place throughout the year.
- Students are encouraged to pursue undergraduate research, explore study abroad, and develop leadership skills.
Campus Life
- You get the benefits of A-State's large campus and abundant resources, along with the close-knit feel of a small community.
- The Honors College emphasizes connection, a sense of belonging, and lasting relationships with classmates and faculty.
HLLC – Honors Living-Learning Community
- The Honors College now offers a dedicated living-learning community for honors students.
- This is a space where honors students can live, study, and connect with one another in an environment designed for a deeper academic experience.
The Honors College helps you go further
At A-State, the Honors College is presented as a place that helps students expand their potential, build deeper connections, explore the world, and shape their career path through in-depth learning and a strong, supportive community.
Quick highlights
Admission criteria
The Honors College is designed for students with outstanding academic ability who want to pursue a more in-depth college experience. Admission criteria vary depending on the applicant category.
Incoming Students
- ACT superscore of 28 or higher.
- High school GPA of 3.50 or higher.
- Eligible students are automatically screened for admission to the Honors College.
- No separate honors application is required at this initial stage.
Transfer Students
- Must have completed at least 18 college credit hours.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.
- A letter of recommendation from a faculty member or academic advisor is required.
- Must complete the Honors Transfer Application.
Current A-State Students
- Also require at least 18 college credit hours.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.
- A recommendation from a faculty member or advisor is required.
- Must complete the Current Student Honors Application.
Important Notes
- The Honors College is a great fit for students who enjoy in-depth learning, discussion, and taking greater ownership of their academic journey.
- Admission requirements are higher than the university average, as this is a selective academic community.
More than just an honors class
Scholarships
- Honors students have access to private scholarships reserved for the honors community.
- These recognize academic achievement, leadership, and active involvement in the honors community.
Honors Ambassadors
- A student leadership group that represents the Honors College in outreach, service, and community-building activities.
- This role helps students develop public speaking, leadership, and networking skills.
Honors College Association
- The official student organization of the Honors College.
- Plans events, social activities, and community service projects that enrich the honors student experience.
Honors Thesis & Capstone
- The honors thesis is a signature capstone experience for students pursuing In University Honors.
- Students work with a faculty mentor to develop a topic, conduct research, and complete a final project with clear academic depth.
Levels of graduation recognition
In University Honors
- Complete 24 honors credit hours.
- Including 12 upper-level credit hours.
- Complete a senior thesis in the major or minor.
- Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.50.
In Honors
- Complete 18 honors credit hours.
- Including 9 upper-level credit hours.
- Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.50.
Honors Certificate
- Complete 18 honors credit hours.
- Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.00.
- Also suitable for some students in specific professional programs.
What does this offer you?
- Adds academic depth to your personal profile.
- Demonstrates research ability, discipline, and perseverance.
- Creates a stronger highlight when applying for scholarships, further studies, or jobs.
Leadership and support team
The Honors College leadership team includes Dr. Carmen Williams – Director of the Honors College and Madelyn Carson – Associate Director. Having a clear support structure makes it easier for students to access information, advising, and academic guidance throughout their honors journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Honors College at A-State?
What requirements do incoming freshmen need to enter the Honors College?
Can transfer students or current students join the Honors College?
What sets the Honors College apart the most?
What benefits does joining the Honors College bring for the future?
Find out if the Honors College is right for you
If you're a strong student who enjoys a more challenging academic environment and wants to grow in critical thinking, leadership, and academic opportunity, contact A-State's Vietnam Office for further advising on the Honors College and the right application path for you.
This page was machine-translated and is being reviewed by our admissions team.
Video
Inside Honors College
The labs, the lecture halls and the students of this college — from the official A-State Vimeo channel.
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