The honors program in the College of Engineering is designed to meet the needs of students with superior academic ability and to promote scholarly development throughout their college careers. The program's objectives are to challenge superior students by offering them access to more advanced levels of study, to permit the fullest possible use of their creative abilities, and to encourage a sustaining interest in advanced education and research. During the freshman year, engineering-directed students in University College and in the College of Engineering participate in the honors program through membership in the University Honors Society. Enrolled students beyond the freshman year must maintain a cumulative point-hour ratio of at least 3.40, reviewed annually by the director of the honors program, in order to retain honors status. Students interested in participating in the honors program should meet with the director for enrollment procedures.
Honors students are eligible to receive scheduling priority and to enroll in honors courses.
Incoming freshmen are eligible to apply for residence in one of several honors living-learning centers. Upper division honors students are eligible to participate in undergraduate research projects, including six to nine hours of independent study, the preparation of a senior research thesis, and subsequent oral defense of this thesis. These projects must be approved by the Honors Office in the College of Engineering. Honors versions of courses are offered in both engineering-related and liberal arts areas. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves by attempting these courses.