More Information about the Honors Program

Each year, Roanoke College invites approximately 35 incoming freshmen and first-term sophomores to become members of the Honors Program.  These students have demonstrated excellent academic performance, extracurricular interests and leadership abilities.

Over the four years, each Honors student completes the Honors Curriculum in lieu of the Roanoke College Core Curriculum requirements.  The Honors Curriculum consists of four parts, normally taken in this sequence:

The Freshman Experience
An introductory seminar emphasizing critical thinking,
oral and written communication.

Values Practicum
An inquiry into the various intellectual, moral and religious
values involved in the choices leading to a responsible life.

The Human Journey
A two-semester humanities sequence focusing on central themes that have
been the driving forces behind human civilization.

Topics in Honors
Interdisciplinary or special focus courses that reflect the current interests of faculty members from across the College.

Contemporary Challenges
The final senior seminar bringing all of the fields of study to a central focus
on selected contemporary and future issues.

All Honors students will complete: foreign language through the intermediate level; three courses in mathematical reasoning and laboratory science; two courses in social scientific reasoning; two courses in physical education; and one intensive learning course.  In addition, all students will complete an Honors Project.

Beyond a challenging curriculum, Honors students participate in P.E.P. or “Plenary Enrichment Program.”  Recognizing during your tenure as a college student that some of the most valuable learning experiences occur outside of the classroom, P.E.P. sponsors a range of informal activities.  These activities include, but are not limited to, plays, films, concerts, lectures and open forum discussions.  Additionally, Honors students participate in service activities throughout their four years as a member of the Roanoke College community.