Since the founding of Clark Honors College at the University of Oregon in 1960, universities across the globe have made great strides in establishing honors colleges and programs as a way of providing specialized experiences for students. Offered at both large, public universities and small, private universities alike, honors colleges and programs are somewhat of a hidden gem of the college experience. And when it comes to the college search, many students and their families are oftentimes not aware of their existence or do not consider them to be an important factor in their decision making. However, once given a closer look, it becomes quickly apparent that honors colleges and programs are a treasure trove of opportunities, perks, and benefits.

Priority Class Registration

Depending on a student’s major, this perk alone can make honors colleges/programs worth their weight in gold. Being ahead of the mad rush for the most popular courses not only alleviates stress but may ultimately make the difference in ensuring that a student is able to progress through courses in a timely manner. 

Smaller Class Sizes

Active classroom discussion, senior level instructors, students called by name – these are just a few of the characteristics of classes offered through an honors college/program. In contrast, the same course offered through the university at large might be held in a lecture hall of 100+ students and taught by a teaching assistant using a microphone. So, while the workload of honors courses is undoubtedly more challenging, smaller class sizes offer additional support to ensure students are successful.

Mentoring and Advising

With smaller class sizes, comes the opportunity for students to form close bonds with faculty members. The professors are not only viewed as teachers but also as mentors and advisors. For students who want to become involved in undergraduate research, these relationships are essential. Additionally, as students are preparing for graduate school or a job after graduation, the mentorship and advising provided by professors becomes an invaluable resource.

Specialized Housing

Some universities offer specialized housing for students in the honors college/program. Oftentimes referred to as living-learning communities, these residences offer a unique opportunity for students to connect outside of the classroom. Likewise, living among like-minded peers who are completing the same work and projects provides an additional layer of support that is much needed during the early years of college.

Career Opportunities

This last category is the prized jewel of all perks offered by honors colleges/programs -  Internships, job shadowing, study abroad, research opportunities, presenting at conferences, networking, renowned guest speakers - and the list goes on. Basically, the "Treat Yo’ Self” buffet of college experiences.

Not only do these activities take learning to a whole new level, but they can also give students an edge when applying for graduate school or future jobs. 

Bonus: Scholarship Opportunities

As if all these benefits weren’t amazing enough, some honors colleges/programs award their students scholarship money. This money is usually on top of merit scholarships given by the university and is awarded annually for each year the student is involved in the honors college/program. For a listing of some scholarships offered by honors colleges/programs, take a look at this Unigo.com article.

For further reading on the advantages of university honors colleges and programs, check out this list of well-known honors colleges and programs put together by College Kickstart.