Bryenton Center for the Honors Program
Students entering the community of learners have 24 hour access to quiet study in the lounge, Eisenhower seminar room, and computer areas of what is affectionately known as the Honors House. Students are issued keys to the house and sign a House Privileges Agreement, promising to adhere to its rules. Campus security monitors the house at night.
Registration and Reduced Overload Fees
Honors students are permitted to register for courses prior to non-Honors students with the same class standing (freshman, sophomore, etc.). During semesters in which students are registered in an Honors seminar, they will be permitted to register for up to one course beyond the maximum number of credits for their degrees without incurring additional fees. This privilege is especially beneficial to those seeking a dual major or planning to study abroad.
Honors Curriculum Substitutes for General Education Program
Students are not required to take the general education courses required of other students. Instead, they take the sequence of Honors seminars and program of support courses designated for their Honors Diploma. This provides more flexibility in course selection.
Special Study Abroad Programs
Students may be eligible for study for one or two semesters at the University of Oxford in Oxford, England. The agreement between Heidelberg University and the Oxford Study Abroad Program facilitates admission to Oxford for Heidelberg Honors students in good standing who have completed two years of university and have maintained a 3.3 grade point average with a higher grade point in their major.
Students also have the opportunity to apply for study at the University of Glasgow in Scotland as the result of a new agreement between the two universities.
Though not a special Honors program, there are also opportunities for study at our sister institution, the University of Heidelberg in Germany.
Honors Community Housing Option
Starting in 2011-2012, there will be a new residence hall option for Honors students. Based in Miller Hall, this Honors Community academic floor will offer 24-7 quiet hours and other features to support the mission of the Honors Program’s “Life of the Mind” philosophy. Students interested in this program will have the opportunity to sign up for rooms on the Honors Community floor prior to residence hall room draw in the spring.
Accelerated Graduation
Many students complete their requirements for graduation in less than four years with a combination of Advance Placement or post-secondary college credits earned in high school, the ability to register for one additional course in some semesters without incurring a fee, and the opportunities for advanced work afforded by the Honors Curriculum.
The Honors Diploma
Upon successful completion of the Honors Program, students will receive an Honors Diploma and a transcript notation as proof of this accomplishment. Also, students will receive distinctive academic regalia to wear at commencement ceremonies.