Honors Program Benefits

Graduates earning Distinction as a University Honors Scholar are recognized in the Commencement program, receive the Distinction on their University transcript, and are eligible to wear the white Honors Stole at Commencement.

Some additional benefits of participation in the program are given below.

  • Exclusive access to Honors courses taught by award winning faculty identified as excellent teachers by their students
  • Exclusive access to Honors classroom, social, and study spaces, such as the Laurel Forum and Honors Library
  • Small classes, limited to 15 students
  • Tailored student support from the Director of the Honors Program
  • Unique opportunities for student/faculty engagement
  • A tight-knit community of self-motivated learners
  • Honors sections of FYS, LANG 120, HUM 124, HUM 214, HUM 324, and LA 478
  • Service-learning opportunities on campus and in the greater Asheville community
  • Self-directed study and independent study courses (including Readings in Honors and Undergraduate Research in Honors)
  • Earn honors credit while studying abroad
  • Leadership opportunities in the Student Honors Advisory Committee and across campus
  • Social and academic events outside of the standard curriculum
  • Awards for graduating seniors
  • Optional Honors housing block in West Ridge Hall, located in the University Botanical Gardens

Leadership Opportunity: The Student Honors Advisory Committee

The Student Honors Advisory Committee (SHAC) consists of elected officers and plans activities and events for the Honors Program.  Add our calendar to stay up to date on SHAC events.