F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the Honors College? What is the Honors College?The William O. Douglas Honors College, an independent four-year program within Central Washington University, provides an enriched academic environment for exceptional students through an integrated curriculum of general studies and major coursework. Throughout the four-year program, students attend small classes in which they read, discuss, and write about major texts of different cultures around the world. For more information see our Overview. Why should I join Honors-what will it do for me currently?Honors College students receive individualized instruction in an interactive classroom environment. A student in any major may follow the Honors curriculum. Honors students become especially experienced in critical thinking, writing and discussing complex topics. To supplement their classroom instruction, students participate in several cultural trips hosted by the Honors College every year. Other activities, which promote a positive learning community, are held throughout the year; for example: lectures by distinguished faculty and visiting scholars, seminars, cultural performances, and travel to conferences and research libraries. What are the advantages or benefits from being an Honors graduate?Graduating with honors is often a deciding factor in future employment or graduate school opportunities. However, there are many intangible benefits that our graduates experience. Honors graduates have highly developed critical thinking and discussion skills. Our graduates appreciate the rewards of having advanced writing skills. Many Honors College graduates have traveled internationally and attended prestigious universities. Who is William O. Douglas?The college is named for Justice William O. Douglas, a native of the central Washington city of Yakima. When Justice Douglas retired from the United States Supreme Court in 1975, he had served the court for 37 years, longer than any other Justice in history. Is there a grade-point requirement to stay in Honors?Yes, students must maintain a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. See our Academic Standing Policy. How does the Honors curriculum fit with my major?Honors College students must complete the requirements of a major or major-minor combination. The Honors College, by itself, does not constitute a major or minor program, but will accompany the major degree. Central Washington University offers major degrees in more than 120 specialized fields of study. All of Central's Major Programs are compatible with the requirements of the Honors College. However, the credit requirements of a few majors may necessitate taking more than 15 credits (a student's "average" load) during some quarters, or attending college for more than the conventional 12 quarters. The Central Washington University catalog should be consulted for specific major and minor requirements. How would my General Education Requirements change?Instead of taking the university general requirements, you would take specific honors general studies courses. See our list of General Studies Requirements. What is the Honors Thesis?As a capstone to their honors curriculum, Honors College students submit a senior thesis prepared under the supervision of a thesis committee. They enroll in two senior thesis courses (DHC 488, 489) which meet weekly to guide the research and writing of the thesis, and present their work in progress to a larger audience. Upon completion, the thesis is presented to the campus community at a Senior Presentation. All students must follow the senior thesis guidelines and submission requirements. For more information, see our Senior Thesis section. What if I am a Transfer student or Running-Start student?Running-Start and Transfer students that have a substantial amount of transfer course credits and wish to apply to the program are encouraged to contact the Director of the Honors College before submitting an application. All students will be expected to complete the four-year curriculum, regardless of completion of their major. Many who were transfer and running-start students were able to complete an additional minor or expand their education with a double major. Does it cost more to be in the Honors College?No. There is no additional cost involved with being in the Douglas Honors College. For more questions about the cost of attendance, see the office of Financial Aid. For information about relevant scholarship opportunities, see our Scholarship page. What is the Honors Living Learning Community in Kamola Hall?While all residence halls offer educational and social activities, specialized Living Learning Communities (LLC) such as the Honors LLC have out-of-classroom enrichment activities that focus on the needs of honors students. The professional residence hall staff or scholars in residence assist with the daily operation of the Honors LLC. Here, a group of Douglas Honors College students are clustered in the same residence hall to enhance the honors community. Regular forums and seminars in Kamola Hall supplement the Honors curriculum. Here, students meet faculty over informal discussions in a social setting. Contact us if you have further questions, or wish to receive a brochure.
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Language & Literature Building, Suite 103 400 East University Way Ellensburg, WA 98926-7521 Phone:(509) 963-1445 Fax: (509) 963-1206 e-mail: dhc@cwu.edu |
