Frequently Asked Questions

How many students participate in the University Honors Program?

The UHP may accommodate up to 140 first-year students each new academic year. A limited number of current freshmen and first semester sophomores may petition to join the program.

Is the UHP open to students in all academic schools and colleges?

Students who matriculate in any of the academic schools and colleges are eligible to join the UHP.

Does participation in the UHP, preclude participation in a departmental or school/college honors program?

The UHP strives to complement existing and future honors initiatives in departments, schools, and colleges. UHP students are highly encouraged to participate in discipline honors programs where available.

How are UHP students selected?

The application process for prospective students is by invitation-only. In the past, UHP had required potential members to answer two essay questions and to list co-curricular activities and employment history as part of the application process. The new selection process eliminates the application form. The UHP selection process for beginning students is by invitation only. Selection criteria include SAT/ACT scores and high school academic record. To receive full consideration for the UHP, interested beginning students must have a complete admission application on file by no later than *December 15, 2007*. This change is effective immediately and will impact beginning students who matriculate in fall 2008. This information is subject to change without notice.

Is there a learning community for UHP students?

The Lyceum is the learning community for first year UHP students. Lyceum participants reside together in Shreve Hall and enjoy special co-curricular programs coordinated by the Lyceum Leadership Council. Upon acceptance into the UHP, students will receive more information about how to participate in The Lyceum.

What are the program requirements? How do I stay within good academic standing of the UHP?

UHP students are expected to complete 24 hours of honors credit over their four years at Purdue. The 24-hour requirement may be met by a combination of the following: HONR courses, honors courses in colleges/schools, study-abroad, and research. UHP students who successfully complete 24 hours of honors credit while maintaining a cumulative 3.6 GPA will receive a University Honors Diploma at graduation, as certified by the UHP Director.

To remain in the UHP, current students must demonstrate progress in fulfilling UHP program requirements while maintaining a cumulative 3.6 GPA. UHP office will individually review UHP students’ academic records at the end of their sophomore year to evaluate progress and GPAs.

What is an HONR course? How do I learn about honors course offerings in the departments, schools, and colleges?

HONR courses are interdisciplinary seminars taught by faculty members who have received distinguished teaching accolades. HONR courses are limited to 20 students. UHP students receive priority registration of these courses. If space permits, other high ability students at Purdue may enroll in these courses. For more information about HONR course offerings, please click here.

To learn about honors course offerings in the departments, schools, and colleges, please click here.

What if I have other questions about the UHP?

Please contact the UHP office at 765.494.2929. UHP staff would be pleased to respond to your other questions.