The University Honors Scholar designation represents the most comprehensive honors experience at Arkansas Tech University. Designed for high-achieving incoming freshmen, this four-year program combines 21 hours of Honors coursework, leadership development, community engagement, and a culminating senior project. Students admitted as a University Honors Scholar also receive the Honors Stipend, supporting their engagement in this enriched academic experience.
To apply for the ATU University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Students who meet the eligibility requirements may apply to join the University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar. Admission is highly competitive and seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, passion for learning, and a clear sense of purpose鈥攖hose eager to contribute to and benefit from an active community of scholars.
To be considered for the University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar at 麻豆成人91精品二区三区, complete the following steps as part of your Admission application by the Priority Deadline (December 1):
Note: All Documents must be on file by the Priority Deadline of December 1.
As part of your University Honors Scholar application, you will complete the 鈥淗onors Application: Essay鈥� form in your ATU Application Portal (Slate).
This is your opportunity to showcase your critical thinking, creativity, and unique perspective. Your essay should reflect your own ideas and writing style. Please do not submit an essay previously used for scholarships or competitions鈥攚e鈥檙e looking for fresh, authentic responses.
Choose one of the following prompts:
To complete this requirement, fill out the 鈥淗onors Application: Essay鈥� form in your ATU application portal. The form will ask you to:
Before submitting, make sure your essay is:
We're excited to read your response and learn more about you through your writing!
Once the Admissions Priority Deadline (December 1) has passed:
Admission to the University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar is highly competitive and space is limited. Students who are admitted may be eligible to receive a University Honors Stipend. This stipend is awarded in addition to any scholarships that may be offered by 麻豆成人91精品二区三区 or other sources.
To maintain eligibility for continued participation in the University Honors Program and renewal of the Honors Stipend, students must:
Receipt and renewal of the Honors Stipend is also contingent upon continued good standing with the University and compliance with all local, state, and federal laws.
Students who fail to meet academic or program renewal requirements will be notified via official student email by the University Honors Director.
All Honors students are eligible for one Grace Semester during their time in the program. This allows a student who falls below the GPA or credit hour requirement one semester to regain eligibility. Once the Grace Semester has been used, failure to meet renewal requirements in any subsequent semester will result in forfeiture of the stipend and removal from the Honors Program.
To graduate as a University Honors Scholar, students must complete all academic and engagement requirements outlined below while maintaining high academic and ethical standards.
Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 each semester
In addition to coursework, University Honors Scholars complete developmental experiences that foster leadership, service, and mentorship throughout their academic journey.
Explore the requirements for each year below:
Honors sophomores complete a minimum of 10 hours of volunteer service each semester. This service allows students to contribute meaningfully to the community. Through service, students develop leadership, empathy, and a sense of civic responsibility while strengthening the connection between their academic learning and real-world impact.
Honors juniors participate in the Peer Support Program, serving as either a mentor for incoming Honors freshmen or a tutor for fellow ATU students. Through these roles, students develop their ability to guide, teach, and encourage others while contributing to both the Honors community and the wider university.
Honors seniors complete a capstone project that reflects their academic interests and personal growth. This capstone experience allows students to apply their knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking to a topic of their choice. Through the project, students demonstrate intellectual curiosity, initiative, and the ability to synthesize what they have learned throughout their Honors experience.
Students who complete all academic and engagement requirements graduate with the designation of University Honors Scholar, an achievement recognized on both the transcript and diploma. Graduates also receive an Honors medallion to wear during commencement, and their names are included in the Honors section of the commencement program.