CSU honors programs provide a rigorous environment of learning for academically motivated students. These programs
develop students’ critical thinking and communication skills, expanding the boundaries of their academic potential to
help them become thinkers and leaders in fields that have significant impact on society. Hallmarks of these honors
programs include:
- specially designed courses and smaller class sizes
- interdisciplinary learning experiences
- co-curricular activities and field trips
- greater involvement in campus life
- an atmosphere where both students and faculty are committed to academic excellence, creativity, critical
thinking, self-discovery, and professionalism
- independent or capstone research
- a successful path for students to complete most of the General Education (GE) requirements for all majors
One important mission of the honors programs is to create a community of diverse and engaged scholars who cultivate
intellectual engagement and educational experience. Other core values that honors programs offer are equality,
flexibility, openness, integrity, courage, persistence, compassion, accountability, teamwork, and academic
excellence.
In general, most campuses offer honors programs to exceptional first-time freshman students, which enable them to
develop leadership and intellectual skills and cultivate habits of critical thinking, independent analysis, and
collaboration. Honors programs seek to challenge students academically while also providing the resources to grow
socially, culturally, and professionally. Honors programs may offer scholarships and specialized courses to eligible
participants.
Visit your campus website for the most up-to-date
information on campus honor programs.