» Frequently Asked Questions
Applying to the Program
Q: How do I apply to be in the Honors Program?
A: The application process is currently closed. Incoming first-year and transfer students normally apply in the same portal that they used to apply to Chapman University. Current Chapman students should contact the Honors Program office for a link to the application.
Q: What is the deadline to apply?
A: The application review process for fall usually begins at the beginning of February. Admission is on a rolling basis until the program is full. To receive a decision before May 1, it is best to submit an application prior to March 31.
Q: How many students are accepted into the Honors Program?
A: The program accepts a limited number of students per year and seeks a balance in the student composition, including majors. The program best serves students who approach their education in a mature and responsible manner. Once accepted, students are expected to be active participants in honors activities.
Q: What are the requirements to be accepted into the Honors Program?
A: A successful candidate for the honors program will exhibit a strong motivation for interdisciplinary studies and an enthusiastic commitment to learning. First and foremost, a compelling essay is crucial for a successful application. Applicants typically have a first-rate GPA and highly competitive SAT and ACT scores. Other criteria may include outstanding leadership and/or creative achievement, community involvement, and a range of interests and experiences. The program best serves students who approach their education in a mature and responsible manner, which includes showing respect for others in the classroom as well as in the community at large.
Q: Can I apply after my freshman year, or if I am a transfer student?
A: Yes. There is no requirement that you have to be in the
Program Requirements
Q: Do I need to maintain a certain GPA in order to remain in the Honors program?
A: Yes. To remain in the program, Honors students are expected to hold a 3.3 GPA by the end of their sophomore year and maintain it through their senior year. If a student's GPA drops below 3.3, the student is on probation, with the expectation that the GPA will return to the required level by the end of the next semester. The student should also consult with the director during this period.
Q: Do I have to be accepted into the Honors Program to take honors classes?
A: Yes, except on rare occasions. Students not in the honors program need prior approval from the instructor of the class and the honors program director. Honors courses are designed for students who are willing to engage in an intellectually demanding course of studies, and classes are generally reserved for members of the program.
Q: What requirements do honors students need to meet?
A:
Students take 8 courses over their four years at Chapman. These must include at least 1 course from each of the 3 main categories (Human Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences), the 3-credit Honors Forum during their first year as an Honors student, and the Honors Capstone Seminar in their senior year. Total credits: 24.
Transfer students, who begin the Honors Program with 60 units or more prior to matriculation, take 5 Honors courses (1 from each of the 3 main categories, the 3-credit Honors Forum during their 1st year as an Honors student, and the Honors Capstone Seminar in their senior year). Total credits for transfer students: 15.
Curriculum Information
Q: How does honors fit into the CU curriculum?
A: Completion of the program satisfies the Themed Inquiry cluster, which every Chapman student must complete. Select honors courses may also satisfy other major, minor or GE requirements.
Q: What if I want to study abroad?
A: Any course taken while studying abroad for a semester can count as 1 of the honors elective courses.
Q: Can students create their own courses?
A: Yes. Students have the option of creating preceptorials, which are student-designed and student-directed courses offered during interterm sessions under the supervision of a faculty preceptor. Planning begins several semesters in advance.