FAQs

1. Class-size is smaller (typically 20-25 students per section)

   • Courses are able to emphasize on discussion-based instruction

   • Classes are more engaging, but workload is not more demanding than regular courses satisfying the same requirements.

   • You get to develop connections with faculty mentors with more one-on-one learning

   • Close knit community of student

2. Competitive scholarship opportunities available for students in the program

3. Personal use of all Honors in-person resources

4. Free admission to music and theater events on campus

Generally not. They will not require more study time or writing assignments than regular GE courses, but there will be a stronger expectation that students should come to class prepared to discuss assigned material.

(Do I need to take more classes to graduate if I am in the Honors Program?)

Courses in the first three years satisfy regular GE requirements. There are up to 5 additional units of coursework over the junior and senior year when students work on their senior Capstone Research Projects. Some of your thesis units can be used to satisfy major requirements in most cases.

Honors Program applications are accepted on a rolling basis but to be guaranteed consideration for admission and scholarship support, you should submit no later than March 15th of each year.  We will continue to admit students into the program on a space-available basis.  Honors Program applications can be submitted electronically simply by visiting our application page.

Do you have any other questions for us? Feel free to send them by email to Ellen Bell (eebell@csustan.edu) or Jim Tuedio (jtuedio@csustan.edu) and we will make sure someone gets back to you with a response! Thanks for your interest in the Honors Program.

No, the University Honors Program at Stanislaus State is not affiliated with the National Society of Leadership and Success (NCLS), also known as an Honors Society. Membership in NCLS is not required for participation in the Honors Program, and we will never ask for payment or fees to be part of our program. While NSLS may seem like a good opportunity, we encourage you to explore other free resources available to you on campus that can provide similar benefits:

• Stan State Office of Leadership, Engagement, and Belonging: This office offers free opportunities to develop leadership skills, participate in student organizations, and engage with the campus community.
• LinkedIn Learning: Through your MyStanState student portal, you have free access to LinkedIn Learning, which offers a wide variety of professional development courses that can help you build leadership, communication, and career-readiness skills.

If you’re ever unsure about the legitimacy of a program or organization or have questions about Honors Program resources, feel free to reach out.