Apply for Honors

Students who have received a Presidential Merit Scholarship should complete the Honors Program Acceptance Form rather than the application.

Honors Program Application

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Accepted file types: pdf, docx, Max. file size: 32 MB.
Please write an essay that addresses your motivation for seeking Presidential Honors at Alma College. How do you hope your participation in this community of scholars will challenge you? What complex questions or social issues pique your curiosity and what would you like to learn about them? And finally, what unique talents, perspective, or experiences are you willing to contribute as we explore ideas and seek opportunities to lead and serve our communities?

Honors Program

Are you driven by curiosity? Do you challenge yourself with the unknown? Are you motivated by positive change?

If so, set your goals, and we’ll set you on the path to success with the Alma College Honors Program. With 60+ participants, this program is designed to encourage highly driven students to see the world from a different perspective and prepare them to be active, engaged members of their community.

In this program, you will:

  • Grow personally and professionally while serving the Alma community
  • Engage in thoughtful reflections to align your strengths and the world’s needs
  • Develop effective leadership skills
  • Learn about the wholeness between humanity and the environment
  • Receive priority registration after your first term

You’ll also complete your own research based on the coursework of your interest. In your honors classes you will meet and learn alongside other Honors students, hear from speakers across campus, create a community engagement plan, participate in reading groups, and present your work on Honors Day.

Dive into the work that sparks your interest most.

Create pieces of art from the inspirations you have collected on societal norms. Step back in time and unpack the unspoken history of our nation. Or spend time developing and testing a small liquid-fueled rocket engine. These are just a few of the recent projects from our Honors students. And for what you discover, the decision is all yours.

Program Requirements

As a student in the Honors Program, you’ll need to:

  • Maintain a 3.5 GPA
  • Present at Honors Day
  • Acquire twelve credits during your time at Alma
    • Four credits from required seminars
      • HNR 100 – Designed to engage with the campus community
      • HNR 200 – Designed to introduce local community stakeholders and project development
      • HNR 300 – Develop and carry out a community engagement plan. This can be in conjunction with 3CE.
      • HNR 400 – Reflect on your experiences by developing a portfolio of your Honors coursework.
    • Four credits from an internship, research, or independent study. Pursue the fields that already hold your interest.
    • Four credits from electives
      • Reading groups available during the second 7-week session each semester
      • Honors Contracts – if you are enjoying a class, you can work with the professor to expand the coursework for another credit designated for Honors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this program interfere with my path of study?

Because Honors credits can come from classes you’re already planning to take, the Honors Program doesn’t detract for your path of study – it complements it.

Will I be charged for the overload of credits?

Most of the credits earned through the Honors Program are overload exempt, so you will not be charged for going above the typical full load when taking these classes.

Why should I join the program?

The Honors Program sets you up to reflect inwardly while solving real problems within our society. The coursework teaches successful students how to best interact with community members, how to welcome challenging conversations, how to listen to all voices, and how to be leaders in a community that gives space for all to thrive.

Questions?

(800) 321-ALMA
admissions@alma.edu