Academics

At the Honors College, we want students to take intellectual risks, make discoveries, explore the world around them, participate in exciting cutting-edge research projects, engage in community-based learning, and find their passion.

First Two Years (Honors Foundations Program)

The Honors Foundations Program is a two-year program for first-time freshmen. The program is designed with the goals of engaging and developing high-achieving students by enriching their general education while fostering community and service in Honors, WVU, Morgantown, West Virginia, and the world.

Learn more about the Honors Foundations Program. 

Most students join us as incoming freshmen, however, i t is also possible to join the Honors College after a successful first semester at WVU. Transfer students who are current freshmen may also be eligible.  

Learn more about Honors College Admission for incoming freshmen. 

Third and Fourth Year (Honors EXCEL Program)

The Honors Experiential and Community Engaged Learning (EXCEL) Program supports WVU undergraduate students in experiential and community-engaged learning. Students will develop skills in leadership, project management, communication and collaborative scholarship. Students will create scholarly products appropriate to their project, while advancing the service mission of West Virginia University. 

Students Admitted Prior to Fall 2017

Students who started the Honors College during catalog years summer 2017 or earlier were admitted to the four-year Honors program. Students in this program graduate with either Dean’s Honors (16 Honors credit hours and a 3.4+ GPA) or Presidential Honors (25 Honors credit hours, a 3.5+ GPA and a senior project/thesis/or approved substitution). Either designation also requires an application for recognition and exit interview to formally complete the program. This program is not currently available for new applicants.

Academic Resources and Opportunities