Heidelberg believes that only through challenges can you become stronger. Our Life of the Mind Honors Program is a comprehensive approach to empowering you to explore your abilities and interests within a supportive community of your peers.
Through seminars, extra-curricular activities, and collaboration with faculty members on coursework and research, the program allows you to develop your knowledge and skills and explore multiple disciplines.
Previously the home of Heidelberg presidents, the Bryenton Honors Center is now home to the Honors Program. The renovated building contains a seminar room, study lounges, a computer lab, offices, and a kitchenette. Honors students have 24-hour access to the building.
Honors Program Introduction Course
Taught by the Honors Program Director, this seminar brings together all new students to learn about the program and prepare you for upcoming components of the program.
Four Honors Seminars
These are small, discussion based seminars that represent the four areas of the program: the Scholar, the Artist, the Scientist, and the Citizen. These seminars, along with the rest of the honors program, replace the general education requirements for honors students.
Service Learning Project
Complete 40 hours of service learning at the site and activity of your choice.
Senior Honors Project
Work with a faculty member to develop a research project that gives you an opportunity to dig deeper into a subject of your interest.
Completion of your portfolio
Throughout your four years in the program, you will work with the director to compile and polish a portfolio of your work.
Honors students:
- have 24-hour access to the Bryenton Honors Center
- receive priority class registration
- are able to study abroad at Oxford University in England or the University of Glasgow in Scotland.
- have increased flexibility to complete a second major
Dr. Emily Isaacson is the Director of the Honors Program as well as an Associate Professor of English. She loves being able to work with students from all academic disciplines and strives to help every student reach their full potential.
To qualify for the Heidelberg Honors Program, you must have been accepted into Heidelberg University and meet both of the following requirements:
- a minimum 27 ACT (or 1280 SAT)
- 3.5 GPA OR be ranked in the top 10% of your class
If you have not taken the ACT or SAT, you may submit an essay in addition to the GPA requirement to be reviewed by our Director of the Honors Program. Your essay may be uploaded in your Student Portal or emailed to admission [at] heidelberg.edu.
Students who do not meet these criteria when entering Heidelberg may apply again to the Honors Program if they earn a 3.5 GPA during their first semester on campus. Transfer students may qualify if they meet the above requirements or obtain permission from the director.
There's a lot to consider before joining an Honors Program. View our list of frequently asked questions to learn more.