First-time undergraduates enter Honors as part of our four-year program. This program includes required coursework and culminates in a faculty-mentored capstone, in one of three formats (research thesis, creative thesis, or portfolio).
The idea behind this structure is that while independent research and writing is the ultimate goal, we want to make sure you are fully prepared to maximize this experience. Along the way, we offer personalized advising and other tools to support and improve your Honors experience. Please be sure to take advantage of everything that Honors offers our students, and customize your journey to get the most out of being a UHM student.
First & Second Year Courses
As they enter Honors, students in our four-year program take 3 Honors courses (9 credits). Most students complete these courses in their first two years at UHM.
- Two HON courses. We recommend HON 101: Introduction to Research at UH Mānoa, plus one other Honors course.
- One “A-Section” course, which is a General Education course offered for Honors students by a partner department. For example, English 100A.
- Most students in the four-year program fulfill a substantial portion of their General Education requirements via their Honors courses.
Some departments have created unique tracks for their majors that specify certain courses for their Honors students. See this page for complete information.
Junior Year & Senior Project
By the junior / third year, students transition to completing the independent project that is at the heart of the Honors experience. Students complete the following sequence:
- By May 15 of your junior year, submit your project proposal to our Mākālei portal. See here for more detailed information on writing and submitting your proposal.
- Hon 494: Honors Workshop (0 credits, online / asynchronous, to get your started on your project), first semester of senior year.
- Two semesters of HON 496: Senior Project course, or a research & writing course in your major.
- Give an oral presentation at the Undergraduate Showcase, held the last week of each Fall and Spring semester.
Regular Advising is Key!
Students should schedule an appointment with an Honors advisor at least once a year. Once a semester is recommended, particularly for students in high-credit majors or who want to incorporate a special experience like study abroad.
In the sophomore year, students attend a mandatory Bridge session that assists in the transition to junior and senior year.
In the senior year, students attend a mandatory Graduation Info session to keep them on track for completing their Honors senior project and other Honors graduation requirements.
Other Honors Requirements
Honors students should keep track of other requirements to complete the program:
- Enter your declared major on our Mākālei portal
- Complete the Department Approval Form with the contact information of your major advisor
- Maintain a minimum 3.2 GPA to remain in good standing in the program
Study Abroad and Off-Campus Experiences
Many Honors students include a study-abroad or other off-campus experience, like an internship, in their Honors program. Honors offers an independent study class, HON 330, to give credit for these experiences and fully integrate them into your Honors program. If you are interested in taking this class, please discuss with an Honors advisor, preferably at least one semester before the planned experience.
- HON 330: Off Campus Study Project. Designed for students pursuing an off campus experience that they design in consultation with a mentor. Students must first consult with the instructor before registering for the course.
Tips for Success
Honors students can be thinking of possible senior project ideas from their first year at UHM. Look for opportunities to participate in hands-on and faculty directed learning, including research and creative experiences, and working in labs or on other projects. Your favorite courses or faculty can become the inspiration points for future senior project ideas.