Program Overview

Introduction to the Honors College

The Honors College at Purdue University Northwest provides a unique and enriching experience for students. By joining the Honors College, students invest in their personal, professional, and academic growth.

Why Honors College?

The benefits of joining the Honors College include:

• Being part of a caring community on campus
• Having a peer mentor during the first semester
• Attending special honors-only events throughout the semester
• Participating in volunteering and civic engagement activities
• Receiving individualized academic advising
• Having access to unique research opportunities
• Taking specialized classes
• Having first-day priority registration

The Honors College provides multidisciplinary learning opportunities and engaging academic experiences to students from all majors. The curriculum can be completed within the existing plan of study, and leadership opportunities help students develop important life-long skills.

About Honors College

The Honors College team works with students to create an adapted curriculum to meet their needs, considering dual credit, AP credit, or previous college credit. The 24 credits required for the Honors College can be adapted to any major with proactive planning and coordination with the Honors advisor.

The Honors College helps students prepare for graduate school by providing research and leadership opportunities that build a strong resume. The Honors College team is available to answer questions and provide support throughout the academic journey.

Honors College Coursework

Honors classes are designed to be discussion-focused, and students are expected to participate more. The style of instruction hones critical thinking skills through intentional assignments and activities.

• Honors classes are not necessarily more work than non-honors classes.
• Students are recommended to take 3 honors credits per semester, typically one class or one stacked course research project.
• The 24 credits required for the Honors College can be adapted to any major.
• Students can still double-major or add a minor while in the Honors College.

Leadership Requirements

Community Service opportunities and events are posted on the Honors College online course throughout the year.

• Students are required to complete 20 hours of community service each academic year.
• Community service is a transformative experience that shapes the education of students and contributes to the development of local communities.
• Students are required to attend at least two events per semester to build community, develop social skills, and interact with peers.
• The Honors College 5K Walk is an annual event that benefits a local not-for-profit organization, and every student is required to participate.