Honors courses are academically rigorous, providing greater depth and challenge.  For example, Honors courses typically include more sophisticated material (readings, problem sets, and the like) that demands students adopt a variety of interpretations or approaches to address questions raised; the use of primary sources and “real world” examples to illustrate the complexity of principles raised; the use of classroom discussion as a tool for debate and discovery, with much advance preparation required; and the privileging of open-ended questions on papers and exams.

Acknowledging that Honors students enter as higher-performing students, honors faculty members challenge and support students with a learning plan that drives individual students to progress during the course.  Honors faculty members also cultivate intellectual engagement and curiosity.  Intellectually engaged students are drawn into the material and methods, excited by learning, and develop lifelong learning habits. Faculty members promote curiosity by encouraging students to explore areas of interest, engage in original research, and pursue creative projects.