Two students in laboratory pour chemical into container

Honors academics

KU’s honors program offers a small liberal arts college experience at a Tier I research institution. Nearly 30 percent of honors students consistently complete two or more majors — a testament to the program’s interdisciplinary emphasis.

Graduating with university honors

In addition to meeting a 3.25 cumulative KU GPA, the three academic experiences listed below constitute the requirements a student must meet to graduate with university honors. To ensure that their academic goals and ambitions stay on track, honors students gain early access to course selection through priority enrollment.

First-year honors seminars

All students in their first year in the University Honors Program must enroll in a one-credit honors seminar. These seminars introduce students to two key mentors — their instructor and their seminar assistant — as well as the program, the university, and one captivating topic.

Professor listens to students outside

Honors courses

Honors students must take at least 18 credit hours in a minimum of six honors courses, either through the program or an academic department. These classes are small, engaging, and discussion-based, allowing students to form meaningful relationships with peers and top KU faculty.

Professor speaks to students on laptops

Experiential learning

Honors students learn broadly, deeply, and through experience, both inside the classroom and out. They then apply and reflect on these experiences as they complete four Enhanced Learning Experience (ELEs), a requirement of program completion.

Professor points to river as students listen

Interested?

For those ready to be considered, our application page covers all the details. For more information about the program, join KU's mailing list through our form or attend a presentation at Nunemaker Center, our campus home.