Honors Program

Honors Program

The JSCC Honors Program offers enriched educational opportunities for academically advanced students, focusing on in-depth learning, smaller classes, and personalized academic experiences. Eligible students can apply based on GPA, earned credits, or ACT scores. Honors students benefit from exclusive course sections, individualized learning contracts, and a robust academic community. Graduating with Honors distinction provides formal recognition, including special cords, diploma notations, and an enhanced transcript. This distinction also strengthens transfer applications and career prospects. 

Why Join the Honors Program?

1. Honors Classes and Contracts

• Enroll in specially designed Honors sections for in-depth exploration and academic development.
• Smaller class sizes (maximum 18 students) foster closer connections with professors and peers.
• Earn honors credits through Honors Contracts in non-honors sections, offering individualized learning experiences.

2. The Honors Community

• Collaborate with like-minded students who share a passion for academic excellence.
• Build a network of supportive peers who challenge and motivate you in your studies.
• Students at the Jackson campus have access to the Honors Study Lounge in the Nelms Classroom Building.

3. Recognition for Your Achievements

• Graduates of the Honors Program receive special recognition on their transcripts and in the graduation program.
• Honors Graduates are awarded honors cords to wear at graduation.

4. For Your Future

• Honors distinction on your transcript shows employers you can take on unique academic challenges.
• Honors credits and distinction strengthen transfer and scholarship applications.

"Join the JSCC Honors Program to challenge yourself, connect with driven peers, and achieve distinction that sets you apart!"

Requirements for Graduating with Honors Program Distinction

The Honors Program offers two pathways to completion.

The “Distinguished Honors Graduate” Pathway

Students in Associate of Arts and Associate of Science programs who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university are encouraged to complete the “Distinguished Honors Graduate” pathway. Its requirements are:

• Earn honors credits in at least five classes (15 credit hours minimum). Students earn honors credits either by taking designated Honors course sections or by completing Honors Contracts in non-honors sections. Honors credits must be earned in at least two different academic disciplines.
• Successfully complete a one-hour Honors Seminar course (HON 200). These courses focus on a different topic each semester and offer students the chance to explore important contemporary issues in a collaborative, discussion-based learning environment.
• Fulfill all standard requirements for a two-year degree with a final GPA of 3.25 or higher.

The “Honors Scholar” Pathway

Students in AAS programs and students who only have one or two semesters before graduation may wish to pursue the “Honors Scholar” pathway. Its requirements are:

• Earn honors credits in at least three classes (9 credit hours minimum). Students earn honors credits either by taking designated Honors course sections or by completing Honors Contracts in non-honors sections.
• Either successfully complete a one-hour Honors Seminar course (HON 200) or complete 24 hours of volunteer service with a local non-profit organization.Seminar courses focus on a different topic each semester and offer students the chance to explore important contemporary issues in a collaborative, discussion-based learning environment. The option to complete service hours instead of HON 200 provides flexibility for students nearing graduation.
• Fulfill all standard requirements for a two-year degree with a final GPA of 3.25 or higher.

Both pathways are open to all JSCC Honors Students.

Additional Information

For additional details, please contact the Honors Program Coordinator, Prof. David Hart.