How Honors Courses Work

What Are Honors Courses?

Honors courses are designed to go beyond the traditional classroom experience by encouraging deeper learning, meaningful discussion, and close interaction with faculty and peers.

There are two ways to earn Honors credit.

Ways to Earn Honors Credit

Honors Sections

Honors sections are courses designed specifically for Honors students.

Open only to students admitted to the Honors College
Smaller class sizes with more discussion-based learning
Emphasis on critical thinking, collaboration, and engagement
Taught by faculty committed to high-impact teaching practices

These courses provide a more interactive and enriched version of traditional coursework.

Honors Contracts

Honors Contracts allow students to earn Honors credit within a non-Honors course.

Developed in collaboration with the course instructor
Focus on a project or assignment that goes beyond standard coursework
Allows students to explore topics in greater depth within their major or area of interest
Flexible option that fits within your existing degree plan

Honors Contracts are a great way to customize your academic experience while staying on track for graduation.

What to Expect

Regardless of the pathway, Honors coursework is designed to:

Challenge you academically
Strengthen your communication and critical thinking skills
Encourage independent exploration and creativity
Be recognized on your official TAMUK transcript

Frequently Asked Questions

Honors sections are courses specifically designed for Honors students, while Honors Contracts allow you to earn Honors credit in a regular course by completing additional, advanced work with your instructor.

Yes. Honors Contracts are commonly used within your major and allow you to explore topics in greater depth while staying on track with your degree plan.

Honors Contracts provide a flexible option so you can still earn Honors credit in courses you are already taking.

Most students take one Honors course per semester, depending on their schedule and academic goals.

All Honors courses - both Honors sections and Honors Contracts - require approval from the Honors College.

Once approved, you will receive instructions on how to register for the Honors course section (CRN) in Blue & Gold or how to update your schedule if needed.

Explore available Honors sections in Blue & Gold
Think about courses where you may want to complete an Honors Contract
Contact the Honors College to discuss your options and receive approval

For questions about Honors courses, contracts, or registration, please contact the Honors College. We are here to help you navigate your options and next steps.