Specially Designed Courses
The Honors Program offers a unique academic experience through specially designed versions of core curriculum courses. These Honors seminars, capped at just 15 students, provide an intimate and engaging learning environment where full-time faculty members—each with a demonstrated record of excellence—lead students through thought-provoking discussions, critical thinking, and real-world application of knowledge. Unlike typical general education courses that often rely on lectures and rote memorization, Honors courses are focused on inquiry, dialogue, and collaboration.
As part of the program, Honors students are required to take a minimum of five Honors seminars. However, many students find that they can fit more into their schedules, enriching their academic journey. These seminars are offered across a range of disciplines, including writing, philosophy, environmental science, theater, American government, and more. Additionally, our interdisciplinary seminars connect various fields of knowledge, encouraging students to make connections across disciplines while developing a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Priority Registration
One of the distinct advantages of being an Honors student is the opportunity for priority registration. Students in good standing within the Honors Program receive early registration access, ensuring they have the first pick of available Honors seminars. This advantage allows students to better plan their academic schedules, minimize conflicts, and ensure they can pursue the specialized courses that are central to their academic goals.
Senior Thesis
A hallmark of the Honors experience is the senior thesis—a capstone project where students collaborate closely with faculty mentors to conduct original research, creative projects, or applied work within their field of study. This process fosters independent scholarly inquiry and prepares students for future academic and professional challenges.
The thesis journey culminates in an oral presentation in the spring of the senior year, where students present their findings to faculty, administrators, and peers. Additionally, students are often invited to present at regional and national conferences, gaining exposure and contributing to the broader academic community. Past Honors graduates have emphasized how the thesis experience shaped both their intellectual growth and their ability to pursue opportunities in top graduate programs or competitive job markets.
Intercultural Enrichment
In today’s interconnected world, intercultural understanding is essential. The Honors Program ensures that our students graduate with a strong sense of global citizenship. Honors students can meet the intercultural enrichment requirement through language proficiency, study abroad opportunities, or courses that emphasize global perspectives.
We offer a rotating selection of travel-abroad courses to destinations such as Italy and Belize, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures, languages, and ways of life. Financial support is available to eligible students to make these life-changing experiences more accessible. These courses not only broaden academic knowledge but also foster personal growth and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of our world.
Community Engagement & Specialty Housing
At Bellarmine, the Honors Program goes beyond academics to foster a tight-knit and vibrant community. Honors students form lasting connections with peers, faculty, and staff, building relationships that enhance both their academic and personal lives. The program offers specialty housing in the newest and nicest residence halls on campus, where students live and study together, creating a supportive environment conducive to academic success.
Throughout the year, the Honors Program hosts a variety of social and cultural events, such as trivia nights, kickball tournaments, and guest speakers, creating opportunities for students to bond and engage with the broader campus community. Beyond the Bellarmine campus, Honors students enjoy off-campus activities in cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and St. Louis, enriching their college experience with vibrant cultural and social activities.
The Honors Program provides a dynamic balance of academic rigor, personal development, and community engagement. Students graduate not only with a distinguished degree but also with experiences and relationships that will shape their futures as leaders and global citizens.