How does the program work? Does it mean taking extra courses?
The Honors Program is a track within WSU's existing academic programs. It is not a stand-alone curriculum. You should take a minimum of 7 honors courses during your college career; however, most of the courses you will take for honors also count either toward the Liberal Arts and Sciences Curriculum (LASC) or your academic major.
What does a typical freshman fall schedule look like?
All first-year honors students take 2 courses together as a learning community in groups of 20 students: an all-honors First-Year Seminar plus the honors writing course, EN 250 "Critical Writing and Creative Thinking." Many first-year students also take additional honors classes, usually as an honors "section" of introductory courses from across the University; you'll receive information about those options during Registration Day.
Will I have an honors advisor?
The Honors Program provides guided navigation through the university system throughout your 4 years. Honors students have Honors Program advisors in addition to an advisor in their major. And, of course, you have access to all of WSU's Academic Success resources.
What are the co-curricular elements of the Honors Program?
The Honors Center has a designated library room used for study and collaboration, program planning and meetings, and hosting the monthly honors student group meeting. In addition to the speakers and events on the
Worcester State campus calendar, we plan a lively series of social and cultural events throughout the year just for honors students. Popular honors traditions include the President's Dinner and Theatre nights, the fall Boston day trip, and the spring overnight trip to New York City.
What are the long-term benefits of the program?
Your honors participation is recognized on your transcript and at graduation. An enhanced academic record will strengthen your future graduate school and employment applications. The Commonwealth Honors Project is your chance to conduct and present independent research, synthesize your honors and college studies, and experience integrated learning by bringing it all together as a junior or senior and earning Commonwealth Honors Scholar distinction.
Are there Honors Scholarships?
Academic scholarships are not administered by the Honors Program, although we are proud to report that many honors students are awarded scholarships. Please contact the
Financial Aid Office for more information about the range of scholarships that are available.
Is there Honors Housing?
First-year honors on-campus residents are informally clustered together in their first-year residence hall. Honors House in Wasylean Hall is an available option for sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
What if I'm a commuter student?
You won't be alone. About half of our students commute to campus and participate in our academic, cultural, and social events. All honors students are welcome and encouraged to attend events hosted by Honors House.