The biology Honors Program recognizes outstanding biological sciences and clinical lab science majors, and introduces these students to high-level research opportunities. Honors Program participants complete self-led research projects in collaboration with a chosen faculty member, and will take special honors-level courses.
Students are encouraged to apply for admission to the Honors Program during the spring semester of their junior year, with induction to the program occurring in their senior year. Students may begin their research any time after their acceptance into the Honors Program.
Requirements for Admission to the Honors Program
- Students must have a 3.30 minimum GPA in all academic work, and a 3.30 GPA in all biological sciences, mathematics, chemistry, and physics courses.
- Students must identify a full-time faculty member in the department to serve as an honors research advisor, and one additional biology—or other science—faculty member to serve as a reader for their honors project.
- Students will design a research project in conjunction with their chosen advisor.
- Students will apply to the honors committee for admission. The committee will accept students if they meet the GPA requirements, and their research project, research advisor, and reader are deemed appropriate.
Honors Program Requirements
- Students will complete two semesters of BL 4000 (Honors Problems in Biological Sciences) for a total of six credits.
- Students will present their research findings two ways:
- A written report
- A presentation during a departmental seminar
- For more information on Honors Program requirements, contact the program director.
Honors Program Recognition
A student who completes the Honors Program will be recognized in several ways:
- “Honors in Biological Sciences” will be noted on the Commencement program and will be announced as part of the commencement proceedings.
- “Honors in Biological Sciences” will appear on the student’s final transcript.
- The student will receive a certificate of accomplishment.