[ Honors Program ]

FAQs

Do I need to take lots of additional courses to participate in the Honors Program?
No, almost all of the Honors courses fulfill general education requirements that you’d have to complete anyway. For more details, see Honors Curriculum.

How do Honors courses differ from regular courses?
Honors courses are small, and many are taught in an interactive seminar style. Honors courses have a strong focus on developing critical thinking through stimulating discussions and use of primary texts. They often include guest speakers and field trips and are always extremely student-centered.

Is the Honors Program all about course work?
No. There are many fun cultural and social activities, too! In the recent past, the Honors Program has sponsored trips to theatre and dance performances, bowling parties, dinners, Q&A sessions with guest speakers, and more. Plus, you’ll work closely with the staff of the Center for Professional Excellence (CPE) as you plan your career through mentoring, interning, counseling, international study, intercultural education, and service-learning opportunities.

Can I take an Honors class if I am not in the Honors Program?
No. Honors courses and seminars are limited to Honors Program members.

Do I have to commit to completing the entire program?
No, there are two levels of participation in the Honors Program. If you complete three units of Elmhurst College Honors course credit with a B or better, you'll be designated an "Honors Program Member" upon graduation.  For a designation of "Honors Program Scholar," you must complete 6.5 units of Honors courses, 3 of which must be part of the Elmhurst College Honors Program, with a B or better that includes a research component via Honors Independent Research and/or an Honors Capstone Seminar.

Do I have to do community service to stay in Honors?
Service learning is not mandatory, but it’s highly encouraged. Each term, several Honors courses include a service-learning component.

How do I apply for the Honors Program?
First-year and transfer students with outstanding academic credentials are invited to join the program. Current students with strong academic standing who wish to join may request a letter of recommendation from a faculty member and apply. Recommendations are reviewed by the Honors Program Director.

Does it cost extra to be part of the Honors Program?
No. There are no extra fees or costs as an Honors Program Member.

What have students had to say about their experience in the Honors Program?
"Joining the Honors Pogram was one of the best decisions I made since coming to EC.  I love the discussion-based classes, and the professors are great!"
"The Honors Program provides the most engaging classes available on campus and presents students with the opportunity to expand educationally and personally in a way that an average college experience could never fully accomplish."
"The Honors Program provides students with a great opportunity to interact on a more challenging academic level and to form new friendships, which is especially helpful during the First-Year at Elmhurst."

How can I learn more?
Contact us! We’re always happy to answer your questions and tell you all about our program.