Honors Program FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about the undergraduate Honors Program at Hilbert College:
- Do I take special honors courses?
There are some Honors classes, but the program also allows you to enroll in regular classes and fulfill honors credit requirements by doing advanced work, or "in lieu of" projects, designed by the professors teaching your classes.
- How many students are in the Honors Program?
There are approximately 80 students in the program out of about 1,000 students at Hilbert.
- What is required to stay in the Honors Program?
You must maintain a minimum 3.5 grade point average, maintain full-time status, and complete the necessary community service. You must also show satisfactory progress toward the completion of honors-related coursework.
- What happens if my GPA falls below a 3.5?
If your GPA falls below the required 3.5, you will be placed on probation in the Honors Program and given an opportunity to bring your GPA up to 3.5. Once that happens, you will be removed from probation.
- What are some of the benefits of being in the Honors Program?
There are several benefits to being an honors student, including personal advisement and one-on-one interaction with faculty, priority registration for all your classes, access to a private lounge with computers, and a renewable scholarship.
- Is special housing available for honors students?
Special housing is not available for honors students. However, honors students have access to a private lounge area with computers for studying and to work on projects.
- Will I automatically be admitted to the Honors Program if I'm accepted at Hilbert and meet honors admission criteria?
Acceptance into the Honors Program is not automatic. You must submit an application, a one- to three-page self-assessment narrative, and a letter of recommendation from a professor, teacher or person who is familiar with your leadership qualities. If you are a new student, you must apply to Hilbert before or at the same time as applying to the Honors Program.
- As an honors student, can I register early for classes?
You will receive priority registration for all your classes.
- What do students do to fulfill their community service requirement?
The type of community service work varies. Some students work for nationally recognized organizations, such as Hospice, Big Brothers/Big Sisters or Habitat for Humanity. Others get involved in local service projects at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, libraries, homeless shelters, or places of worship. Hilbert College offers a wide array of volunteer opportunities that you can participate in.
- How will having been in the Honors Program benefit me after graduation?
As a Hilbert honors student, you will have access to educational opportunities designed to foster your long-term intellectual and personal growth. Your participation will enhance your potential on-the-job and at the graduate school level.
- If I do not quality for entry when first admitted to Hilbert, can I get into the Honors Program later?
You can enter the program later but you must apply when you have 60 or fewer credits.
- Are transfer students eligible for the Honors Program?
Transfer students are eligible for the program but must meet the eligibility requirements as do first-year students.
- Will there be anything special on my diploma or transcript that indicates I was an honors student?
Successful completion of the honors program will be indicated on your Hilbert diploma and transcript.