Honors Program

We encourage all eligible students to participate in the University Honors Program!

The School of Biological Sciences is pleased to offer Honors Program students the opportunity to graduate with Honors in the Major. Honors students will complete various Honors Learning Experiences as well as perform research projects in a faculty member's lab. As an Honors student you may qualify for grants and scholarships related to your research project. You will have the chance to learn beyond the regular course content and have one-on-one access to your instructors. In order to qualify, you must satisfy the checklist below. For more information contact the Honors Program.

Advantages of graduating with Honors in the Major in Biological Sciences

Students will complete a research project and write a research thesis
Unique opportunities to interact with faculty
Demonstrates a significant accomplishment to future employers or professional schools
Diploma and transcripts read "with Honors in Biological Sciences"

FAQ

I'd like to graduate with Honors in the Major. Can you tell me what is required?

Please follow this link to see the details.

What is an “Honors Contract"?

Honors students turn a general course into an Honors Learning Experience by completing an Honors Contract. Students collaborate with their instructor to design a way to extend their learning in the course. This may be a written paper, participating in a group discussion, reading material outside of class, or other types of projects. Visit the Honors Program website to learn more about the process and to complete the form: Honors Contracts.

I'm thinking of applying to ISU. How can I get into the Honors Program?

Incoming freshmen are invited to apply for admission to the Honors Program based on high school academic performance and responses to written essay prompts. Visit the Honors Program Website for application information, including the deadline to apply.

I'm already at ISU. How can I join the Honors Program?

Current Illinois State University students who have at least three semesters remaining until graduation, a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or greater, and evidence of extracurricular/community involvement are encouraged to submit an application. Students are invited to apply during the spring semester of each academic year and are required to begin their Honors coursework the following fall semester. Visit the Honors Program Website for application information, including the deadline to apply.

For more information, visit the Honors Program website.