The mission of the Oklahoma State University Honors College is to provide an enhanced and supportive learning environment for outstanding undergraduate students. Graduating with the Honors College Degree is the highest academic distinction awarded to OSU undergraduates. 

There has been tremendous growth in the Honors College, even outpacing OSU’s overall growth.  Enrollment in the Honors College has increased from 881 students in the 2008 fall semester to 1,208 active participants this fall. The freshman class is setting records in the Honors College as well with 532 active freshmen this semester compared to 346 in 2008. 

To be accepted into the Honors College, freshmen must have a high school GPA of 3.75 and an ACT score of 27.  There is also an essay option for those who fall just short of these requirements. Students must maintain a 3.50 in addition to completing the rigorous curricular requirements of the Honors College.

There are many benefits in participating in the Honors College.  “On a semester-by-semester basis, active Honors College students earn priority enrollment for the following semester,” said Robert Spurrier, director of the Honors College. “These students are entitled to use the honors computer laboratory and study lounge in Old Central, have extended checkout privileges at the Edmon Low Library, and have the option to live on the honors floors of Stout Hall as long as space is available.”

Honors College students have the opportunity to participate in smaller classes, honors seminars and special honors advising along with regular academic advisers. The senior honors thesis or creative component completed for graduation allows for undergraduate research. This is great preparation for graduate or professional school and the competitive job market, Spurrier said.  

“Being in the Honors College definitely comes with its perks,” said freshman honors student Allie Hammock. “My honors classes are much smaller than a normal class, and there is more room for discussion as well as more one on one time with the professors. It might be harder or more challenging at times, but in the end the honors classes will be what made me a well-rounded student.”

The Honors program was founded in the College of Arts and Sciences in 1969 and since 1989 has supported undergraduates university-wide in the pursuit of an Honors College Degrees.  A total of 1,355 students have earned honors degrees from OSU.