The Honors Program is an invitation-only program for students who have shown potential for superior academic performance. After admission to the university, invitations are sent to all students who received a score of 1400 or above on the math and critical reading sections of the SAT or a 33 composite score on the ACT. Honors program candidates also must have an academic high school grade point average of 4.0 or higher, as computed by the university.

Honors program students are eligible for special honors classes and housing in the Honors Residential College at Hume Hall.

Typically honors students enroll in at least one honors class during their first four semesters, although they may enroll in honors courses throughout their undergraduate careers. To remain in the program they must maintain an overall grade point average of 3.0

Students who do not qualify may apply for the program after demonstrating their academic capabilities during the fall semester of their first year. Honors requirements are not in addition to general education requirements and can be used to satisfy these requirements. The small classes and the academic ability of the students make possible more thorough inquiry into course materials and more independent work. Students enhance their skills through extensive reading, writing and oral presentations.

Students who satisfy the Honors Program requirements with a 3.0 overall average, complete the general education requirement and earn 60 semester hours will receive the Associate of Arts certificate with cum laude recognition. Those with a 3.5 overall grade point average will receive the certificate with magna cum laude recognition. Students may also apply to receive a certificate of completion.

After reaching upper division status, students work within their major to graduate with magna cum laude or summa cum laude recognition. Typically this requires the completion a research or other appropriate project and a specific GPA, as established by the college of the major.