An Honors education at Baruch College is a holistic experience that extends beyond the ten-course requirement. The program helps students craft a personal plan for academic, personal, and professional development. At the core of this program is your assigned Honors advisor, who supports you in exploring five key experiences:
Academic Engagement
Honors Scholars are expected to maintain high academic standards, including a minimum GPA of 3.5 and completion of rigorous coursework. This experience encourages students to challenge themselves through honors-level classes, academic competitions, and pursuing additional certifications or credentials. Students have access to academic advising, tutoring resources, and faculty mentorship to help them excel in their fields of study.
Opportunities include:
- Enrolling in honors courses
- Participating in academic conferences
- Engaging in independent study projects
Global Experience
Honors Scholars are encouraged to develop a global perspective by participating in international experiences or engaging with global issues locally. Whether through study abroad programs, internships with international organizations, or courses with a global focus, students are exposed to diverse cultures and perspectives that enrich their academic and personal development.
Opportunities include:
- Study abroad programs
- International internships and fellowships
- Courses on global affairs, international relations, or world history
- Attending global conferences or events
Leadership & Service
Leadership and service are key pillars of the Honors experience. Scholars are expected to take initiative and give back to their communities through service activities. Honors Scholars are required to complete 10 hours of service per academic year. Service can be performed at nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies in areas such as health, education, environmental, arts, social welfare, and housing organizations. Check out our Service Ideas page for more.
Arts & Culture Exploration
Students are encouraged to engage in cultural enrichment through the exploration of the arts. This can include attending art exhibitions, performances, concerts, and museum tours, as well as participating in workshops, creative writing, or performance-based activities. Arts exploration fosters creative thinking, expands cultural awareness, and enhances the overall honors experience.
Opportunities include:
- Attending gallery openings, theater performances, and concerts
- Participating in creative writing or visual arts workshops
- Visiting museums, such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
- Taking courses in music, theater, fine arts, or literature and attending a group event
Research/Creative Inquiry
Dive deep into a topic you’re passionate about through research or creative projects. Baruch’s annual Honors Research & Creative Inquiry Expo, held in May, offers a platform for students to present their work to the community, highlighting their intellectual contributions. Whether through an independent study, honors thesis, or research fellowship, you have the opportunity to contribute original ideas in your field of study.
Opportunities include:
- Completing an independent research project or honors thesis
- Participating in faculty-led research
- Applying for research fellowships or assistantships
- Presenting at Baruch’s Honors Research & Creative Inquiry Expo or external academic conferences
