Montana State's selective honors program elevating academically motivated students since 2013.
The Honors College offers enriched academic opportunities through interdisciplinary seminars taught by distinguished faculty, special honors sections in chemistry, computer science, earth science, economics, English, history, mathematics, music, psychology, sociology, engineering, and physics. All honors students must complete 16–28 credits of honors coursework and demonstrate proficiency in a second language. Graduation with an Honors Baccalaureate degree requires a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA, with three levels of distinction based on GPA and credit requirements.
Incoming freshmen may apply anytime, with completed applications due by the first day of classes. Applicants must submit an honors application form, official transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, an essay, statement of academic plans, and a reference letter. Current MSU students and transfer students may also apply. Once admitted, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA; those falling below 3.0 for two consecutive semesters are dismissed from the college.
Honors students live in the Atkinson Quadrangle (The Quads) or on the honors floor in South Hedges, with administrative offices in Quad F. The college organizes a two-day orientation excursion to Hyalite Canyon featuring hiking and faculty presentations, plus special lectures, symposia, and community service opportunities throughout the year. Housing options include coed residential buildings and centrally located honors floors with enhanced amenities.
The Honors College assists students in pursuing major national and international scholarships. Since 2009, MSU honors students have received 20 Goldwater Scholarships, 2 Rhodes Scholarships, 3 Truman Scholarships, 1 Gates-Cambridge Scholarship, 1 Marshall Scholarship, 23 NSF Graduate Research Fellowships, 5 Udall Scholarships, 5 Boren Awards, and 13 Fulbright grants. MSU was the leading public university for Goldwater Scholars in 2013 with four recipients.