Honors College

Pittsburg State University’s Honors College creates a community for high-achieving students during their undergraduate studies.

Benefits for Honors College students include:

• Priority enrollment
• Access to elevated honors courses
• A renewable scholarship for four years

• All Honors College students automatically become members of the HCA.
• Led by a team of honors students, the HCA connects students from all class levels.

• Hosts social events throughout the year around holidays and special occasions.
• Organizes community service events, encouraging student participation.

• Combines academic advantages with involvement in the Pittsburg community.
• Ideal for high-level students aiming to maximize their undergraduate experience.

Pitt State has a two-level application process based on a combination of the ACT and/or GPA. Either a superscore of 28 or higher on the ACT OR a 3.85 unweighted GPA, AND meet all admission requirements as determined by the Pitt State Office of Admissions

Leadership, involvement, and community service are also taken into consideration.

Since we only take 30 students a year, the membership maximum is 120 per year. This is something that is very unique about the Pitt State program. With cohorts of only 30, the students create a very strong bond and positive relationships within their cohort. Additionally, we work hard and making sure the four cohorts interact and get to know each other through our Peer Mentor Program, our monthly business meetings, and our monthly events. The support system that is in place in the program is extremely important and the value cannot be underestimated. This is one of the very best aspects of the Pitt State Honors College.

There is no typical Honors College student. Our members come from all majors across campus, from in-state and out-of-state, and sometimes even from international settings. We have student-athletes, musicians, artists, researchers, video gamers, and actors. The one thing our students do have in common is the desire to achieve academically and to enhance their collegiate experience through our program and by becoming involved in the overall campus community.

In order to graduate as a member of the Honors College, all students must complete 21 honors credits during their time in the program and these can be accomplished through a variety of ways.  Please refer to the Honors College homepage for more information regarding the academic requirements for the program. 

Students must maintain a cumulative GPA as follows: freshman 3.2, sophomores 3.4, and juniors/seniors 3.5.

Students often think that an Honors College experience in college is similar to an AP environment in their high school setting. This is a common misconception. While students have the option to enroll in special honors sections of general education classes, the classes are not harder - just different. Faculty are asked to teach the class in a very interactive, discussion-based format. Taking notes and tests are not the norm in these classes. Most classes do not even have exams, and are instead structured with group projects, individual presentations, and active conversation and discussions within the classroom setting. Honors classes are limited to 25 seats and only Honors College students are enrolled.

No. Honors College students have majors in all four of our academic colleges and in fact are often the glue that brings programs together. There is a great deal of interaction across colleges within our membership and Honors College students are very often also the leaders and officers within the various student clubs and organizations across campus.

Absolutely! Employers, professional schools, and graduate programs all recognize the Honors College experience as something that better prepares undergraduate students for success beyond the Bachelors degree. Our honors students have higher GPAs, are more active, often serve in leadership positions in clubs and organizations, and often participate in undergraduate research, internships, or study abroad experiences. Not only do you benefit academically, but you will make incredible connections while a member. You will meet some amazing people, make lifelong friends, and garner more respect from your professors and peers. Honors College members have an enhanced collegiate academic experience that will clearly set them above their peers after graduation.

We have living/learning communities available for honors students who live in campus housing and wish to live in this environment with their Honors College peers. We do our best to have the Resident Assistant (RA) also be a member of the Honors College. Living in this arrangement only serves to strengthen the friendships and strong bonds created within the cohort.

Yes. Since all students receive the $2,000 study abroad stipend, our students are strongly encouraged to participate in one of the many study abroad experiences offered at Pitt State. Whether that be a short-term faculty-led program, a summer program, or a full semester exchange program, about 80% of our Honors College students will participate in some program during their time at Pitt State. The Honors College itself sponsors study abroad programs on a regular basis.

Please review the Honors College application proccess. Once you're ready, click on the APPLY NOW button and start your application. It is a savable application so you can work on it in stages if needed.  Applications are due on January 15 each year.

Yes. 30 Honors College Scholars will receive $6,000 for four consecutive years with a one-time $2,000 study abroad stipend.

Email honors@pittstate.edu or contact Brian Moots at 620-235-4902.

Make sure you also follow us on social media!

            Instagram is pittstatehonors

            Facebook is Pittsburg State University Honors College