GV Honors Program
What is the GV Honors Program?
The GV Honors Program is an opportunity to receive Honors recognition upon graduation. Students who capitalize on this program will undergo an exploration of humanity, society and life's purpose. GV Honors students will develop strong communication skills through discussions and collaborative learning opportunities - on and off campus. Begin learning in a completely new way, strengthen leadership skills and engage with peers and professors who share similar levels of intellectual curiosity.
The program is open to all first-year students with a 3.6 high school GPA or transfer students with a 3.6 cumulative college GPA, but we only have 30 openings per year. If you apply and are admitted to Grand View and meet the above criteria, you will be invited to participate in the Honors program.
Why Participate in the GV Honors Program?
First-year students who have been admitted to the Honors program and who have a 3.91 or higher high school GPA may compete for a $5,000 annually renewable scholarship by attending one of Grand View’s Scholarship Day events in November, January, or February. The Honors Scholarship is renewable for a total of four years if the student maintains:
- Good academic standing including cumulative GPA ≥ 3.25.
- Full-time day student status
- Continuous enrollment in the program
By completing the program, you will develop deeply connected relationships with your classmates, both inside and outside of your major. These relationships are fostered through the Honors Program's unique ability to provide cohesive learning. Dive into intense discussions and learn through interactive small groups.
Bonus Benefits of GV Honors Program
- Distinguish yourself with an Honors designation upon graduation
- Engage in unique off-campus activities
- Gain an additional academic advisor
- Collaborate in a small learning environment
- Develop critical thinking skills
- Stand out to employers
- Become more involved on-campus and in the community
How Does the GV Honors Program Work?
GV Honors Program consists of six semester-long courses, ranging from one to four credits each. Three of these courses will fulfill requirements in the general education core:
Required Course Fulfillment
|
| Honors Course |
Traditional Core Course |
| Honors I: The Self and Meaning (4 Credits) |
Appreciation of Fine Arts |
| Honors II: Society and Global Citizenship (4 Credits) |
Core Seminar II |
| Honors III: The Human Condition (4 Credits) |
Faith and Meaning |
The remaining three courses are designed to branch into the Des Moines community and provide social, research and leadership opportunities. These additional courses include:
| Additional Honors Course |
Credits |
| Logos After Hours |
1 |
| Honors Thesis |
1 |
| Honors Activity |
1 |
What About Transfer Students?
The Honors Program at Grand View University was designed with all students in mind. The required courses will begin when you start at Grand View University and allow you to become familiar with your cohort. We also have an agreement with DMACC to allow transfer students who have completed the necessary Honors courses to transfer seamlessly into Grand View University's Honors Program.
How to Join if Your GPA is lower than 3.6
We realize that your GPA does not always reflect your ability to succeed in Honors at GV. If you would like to join the program but do not have the required GPA to do so, please reach out to Honors Director Dr. Amy Getty to discuss the possibilities.