Honors Programs
Honors Programs
Amplified Learning
Honors students at Penn State are empowered to learn and lead across our twenty undergraduate campuses, engaging in exclusive programs offered by both our academic colleges and the Schreyer Honors College. They receive support for their academic, extracurricular, and social interests in their ideal campus setting, benefiting from the extensive resources of a global university and the personalized attention of a private institution. It’s the ultimate blend of opportunity and support.
Small Classes, Robust Experiences
At Penn State, small honors classes offer a dynamic learning environment where students work closely with distinguished professors on complex global issues. These classes provide personalized instruction, in-depth discussions, hands-on learning, and detailed feedback.
For even more customization, independent study courses allow students to collaborate with faculty to create curriculum that aligns with their intellectual goals. Outside the classroom, students enhance their education through academic conferences, service-learning projects, experiential learning, and study abroad trips, broadening their global perspective.
The Sapphire Leadership Academic Program empowers future business leaders with unique leadership curriculum, professional development opportunities, and access to real-world business leaders through workshops and seminars.
The Paterno Fellows Program encourages students to challenge themselves in areas traditionally associated with the liberal arts, such as ethics, service, leadership, communication, and intercultural awareness. It is one of the only programs with a unique pathway that prepares current Penn State students for entry to the Schreyer Honors College.
Signature Engagements
Signature Honors Engagements at Penn State connect students and faculty with influential global figures through enriching experiences. These include the Honors Lecture Series, where distinguished speakers offer deep insights and research findings, and the Dilemmas of Democracy Program, which fosters year-long discussions on democratic challenges, culminating in a formal lecture and symposium.
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Academic Influence
Diverse Communities of Inspired Leaders
Penn State honors students lead in a range of civic and leadership activities, building valuable connections with peers and mentors.
Through community service, career coaching, literacy workshops, and social events, they engage actively in their communities. Their dedication to advocacy fuels their involvement in student organizations that address issues facing marginalized groups and expand career opportunities. Additionally, access to career resources and alumni mentors further promotes diverse perspectives and understanding.
Student-Adviser Connection
The connection between honors students and their advisers is essential to ensure our scholars thrive. Honors advisers guide students in optimizing their course selections, utilizing academic resources, and ensuring they are in the best major for their academic and career aspirations. Advisers also help students prepare for their honors thesis.
Perks and Recognition
Honors students at Penn State benefit from enhanced student services and special recognition of their accomplishments, including:
Priority course registration
Access to honors study lounges
Elevated library access with faculty-equivalent borrowing privileges
Honors housing at select campuses with special resident events
Honors notation on transcript
Honors recognition at Commencement
Schreyer Honors College
Consistently ranked among the nation’s top public honors colleges, the Schreyer Honors College offers students unparalleled opportunities for growth and success. Scholars benefit from one of the largest alumni engagement programs on campus, which helps them expand their professional networks and excel in competitive fields.
To gain entry, new Penn State students must submit a supplemental application for the Schreyer Honors College alongside their Penn State application. Current students with outstanding academic records may also be considered for admission with approval from their academic department.
Honors Programs by Campus
Financial Support for Academic Success
Penn State’s Millenium Scholarship supports students pursuing STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and math). It covers the cost of in-state tuition and room and board for a standard double room, or the cost of out-of-state tuition that may be combined with other awards up to the full cost of attendance. In preparation for their Penn State journey, Millenium Scholars attend a six-week bridge program ahead of their first academic semester.
Students enrolled with the Schreyer Honors College receive a $5,000 Academic Excellence Scholarship, renewable for four years. Need-based scholarships and grants supporting student research, study abroad, and internships are also available through the Schreyer Honors College. Nearly $8 million in grants and scholarships are awarded every year.