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1 Texas A & M University – Commerce Honors Handbook Revised August 2019
1
Texas A & M University – Commerce
Honors Handbook
Revised August 2019
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HONORS HANDBOOK
Texas A&M University-Commerce
Introduction
This handbook is intended for all students interested in or involved in the Honors College or
University Honors Scholars Program at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Please read it
carefully because not all the handbook applies to every student at every moment, but the handbook
does contain specific information about what a student must do during various phases of his or her
pursuit of an Honors degree. The handbook concludes with appendices on the most important
materials associated with Honors at Texas A&M-Commerce.
This handbook will be divided into three main sections. Section One will focus on elements that
are unique to The Honors College at Texas A&M University-Commerce. This section is broken
into two sub-sections. The first subsection contains information relevant to students admitted to
the Honors College up through 2019. The second subsection relates to students admitted into the
Fall 2020 class and forward. Section Two will focus on elements that are unique to the Honors
Scholar Programs at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Section Three will focus on issues that
are of concern to both Honors College and Honors Scholar students (e.g., Honors Theses and
Proposals, Student Honors Council).
Section One: The Honors College
Sub-Section A: For students admitted to the Honors College through Fall 2019
Admission: Each year The Honors College at Texas A&M University-Commerce will admit
approximately 50 students. There are no cutoff scores for admission to The Honors College.
However, we are looking for students who have demonstrated an ability to excel in school and
those whose standardized test scores reflect an ability to continue to thrive in an academic
environment. Thus, the selection committee considers both class rank and standardized test scores
in its admission decisions. The typical Honors College student has the following characteristics:
Class Rank – top 10% or better; SAT (combined math and critical reading) of 1290 or higher, ACT
score of 27 or higher. The specific numbers for the 2019 Fall class were: Top 3.98% of graduating
class, 28.9 on the ACT, 1310 on the SAT. It is important to emphasize that these are not cutoff
scores – merely a portrait of the typical Honors College student. In addition to these criteria, the
application essay will be rated by at least two readers. After a review of these criteria, some
students will be invited to campus for an interview. The rubric used to make interview decisions
can be found at the end of this document.
Final decisions on selection for the Honors College will include the quality of the interview and
the match between student, university, and Honors College.
Before applying to the Honors College, students must be accepted to the University. Once
accepted to the university students can submit the Honors College application. The Honors
College application is an online form. Students interested in applying can find the application for
admission at https://dms.tamuc.edu/Forms/honors?_ga=2.23162866.972917.1565816242-
1049937388.1533129624
3
Benefits: The Honors College experience is designed to increase the educational opportunities
for students while engaging them in a four-year college experience. The benefits of the Honors
College may include the following:
Honors courses capped at an enrollment of 25.
Students housed together in apartment style housing. Emphasis is placed on a housing
experience that fosters a residential learning community.
A fantastic scholarship package that includes the cost of tuition and fees, honors housing,
a partial meal plan (96 meals per semester + $100 flexcash per semester), and an
allowance ($1400 per year as of 2019) for textbook costs.
A challenging curriculum that culminates in an Honors Thesis experience.
An emphasis on high impact educational practices that provide students marketable skills
Curriculum: Honors College students should consult with the Honors Academics Coordinator to
determine the particulars of their Honors degree plan. The typical Honors College student will
complete 30 Honors credit in the process of completing their bachelor’s degree. These credits
fall into 3 groupings: (1) Honors credits – Honors College students must complete a minimum of
21 Honors Credits. These credits will fall primarily, but not exclusively, from the University
Studies core. All students must take a writing course during their first year. Honors College
students who have completed ENG 1301 and ENG 1302 before attending TAMU-Commerce
will receive Honors Credit for an upper division English or Philosophy class (e.g., ENG 333) that
is focused on writing during that first semester. (2) Colloquia and Seminars – all Honors College
students will take 3 1-credit courses toward their degree. The first, HC200, functions as the First
Year Success Seminar for entering Honors College students. The second, HC300, will be a
thesis preparation course. Finally, HC400, will look like a traditional senior seminar. Speakers
will be brought in and readings will be assigned that are designed to help students synthesize
what they have learned during their four years in college. (3) Honors Proposal and Thesis. In
order to receive the Bachelors degree, all Honors College students must successfully complete an
Honors Thesis. Students will receive 3 credits for the successful defense of their proposal, and
three more for the successful defense of their thesis. See Section 3 for details about the Thesis
process.
An example of the curriculum is inserted here. However, you must meet with your Honors
Advisor to discuss substitutions and to insure that classes have been categorized correctly.
4
University Studies Core (42 Semester Hours)
Course
+ENG 1301
+ENG 1302
HIST 1301
HIST 1302
PSCI 2301
PSCI 2302
Social and Behavior Sciences: (3SH) See catalog for options
Literature, Philosophy, and Culture (3 SH): See catalog for options
Creative Arts (3 SH): ART1301, 1303, 1304; ENG432, 434; MUS1309, 1308, 1315; PHO1301 or THE1310
*Math 142,176,179, 192, 1314, 1324, 1325, 1332, 1342, 2312, 2413, or 2413
Life and Physical Science (different requirements for science and non-science majors, see catalog or
Degreeworks for options) (6 SH)
Component Area – requirements differ for students pursuing BA vs BS. See Degreeworks for requirements.
(6SH, includes Signature Course and Degree Pathway)
+ If student has credit for ENG 1301 and 1302, and upper division writing intensive ENG or Phil course will
be mandatory as will count as an Honors course.
* THEA scores may require developmental math before college level math
Honors Courses (9 semester hours)
Course Semester Completed Grade
*HC 200: Introduction to Honors (1SCH)
***HC 300: Honors Colloquium (1SCH)
**HC 491: Honors Reading (3SCH)
HC 490: Honors Thesis (3SCH)
****HC 400: Honors Colloquium (1SCH)
* Will satisfy First-Year Success Seminar (FSS) requirement.
HONORS COLLEGE CURRICULUM PLAN
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** Provides student time for thesis proposal
*** Will primarily consist of a thesis preparation workshop
****Optimally to be taken Senior year
Major Requirements (Discuss with your Major Department)
Minor Requirements (Semester hours-defined by minor department; not all majors require a
minor)
Upper Level Electives (as needed to meet university requirements for graduation)
Total Honors Hours Required: 30
Total Semester Hours Required: approximately 120 (depending upon major)
Subsection B: For students admitted to the Regents Scholars Program through Fall 2019
Mission Statement: The Regents Scholars Program at Texas A&M University-Commerce is a
community of individuals brought together by academic excellence, held together by a resolve to
become global citizens, and challenged to personal and intellectual growth. Regents Scholars come
from diverse backgrounds, have differing individual goals, and yet, work together in an
atmosphere of mutual respect and acceptance.
The Regents Scholars Program Will (Vision Statement):
Foster your curiosity about the world and your place in it.
Promote acceptance and engagement in cultural differences through the study of language,
culture, and foreign travel experiences.
Create a strong sense of personal responsibility in each student by setting high academic
standards.
Develop the leadership potential of each student by helping each person understand their
personal strengths through hands-on learning opportunities that put theory into practice.
Encourage students to give back to the university and community.
Admission: Each year The Regents Scholars Program at Texas A&M University-Commerce will
admit approximately 20 students. Students are selected through the Honors College application
and interview process. There are no cutoff scores for admission to the program. However, we are
looking for students who have demonstrated an ability to excel in school and those whose
standardized test scores reflect an ability to continue to thrive in an academic environment. Thus,
the selection committee considers both class rank and standardized test scores in its admission
decisions. The typical Honors College/Regents Scholar student has the following characteristics:
Class Rank – top 10% or better; SAT (combined math and critical reading) of 1290 or higher, ACT
score of 27 or higher. The specific numbers for the 2019 Fall class were: Top 5.8% of graduating
class, 25.9 on the ACT, 1217.5 on the SAT. It is important to emphasize that these are not cutoff
scores – merely a portrait of the typical student. In addition to these criteria, the application essay
will be rated by at least two readers. After a review of these criteria, some students will be invited
to campus for an interview. The rubric used to make interview decisions can be found at the end
of this document.
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Final decisions on placement into the Honors College or Regents Scholars Program will include
the quality of the interview and the match between student, university, and program.
Before applying, students must be accepted to the University. Once accepted to the university
students can submit the Honors College application. The Honors College application is an online
form. Students interested in applying can find the application for admission at
https://dms.tamuc.edu/Forms/honors?_ga=2.23162866.972917.1565816242-
1049937388.1533129624
Benefits: The Regents Scholars experience is designed to increase the educational opportunities
for students while engaging them in a four-year college experience. The benefits of the Regents
Scholars Program may include the following:
Students housed together a living, learning community.
A scholarship package that includes a scholarship valued at fifty-percent (50%) of the
cost of tuition and fees, program housing, a program-selected meal plan .
A globally focused curriculum that culminates in an international travel experience.
An emphasis on high impact educational practices that provide students marketable skills
Curriculum: Regents Scholar students should consult with the Honors Academics Coordinator
or Regents Scholars Program Director to determine the particulars of their Regents designated
degree plan. The typical Regents Scholar student will complete a total of 30-35 course credits
required by the program in the process of completing their bachelor’s degree. Some courses may
overlap to a student’s major/minor or may be both “global” and for “honors” credit. These
credits fall into 3 groupings: (1) Honors credits – Regents Scholar students must complete a
minimum of 6 Honors Credits. These credits will fall primarily, but not exclusively, from the
University Studies core. All students must take a writing course during their first year. Students
who have completed ENG 1301 and ENG 1302 before attending TAMU-Commerce must enroll
in and complete an upper division English or Philosophy Honors class (e.g., ENG 333) focused
on writing during the first semester. (2) Global credits – Regents Scholar student smust complete
a minimum of 15 hours of globally-focused coursework before graduation. Global courses are
noted on the schedule of classes and Degreeworks with a “GBL”or “GLB” prefix in the title.
With over 150 global course sections offered each fall/spring, courses may fall in the core, a
student’s major/minor or as a required elective. (3) Program Coursework – all Regents Scholars
students will take the following courses toward their degree and distinction.
HC200 First Year Experience Course (1 credit): The course helps new students make the
adjustment to the demands of the university environment and specifically for the
demands of the Honors College program by: 1) building the sense of community within
the program; 2) increasing awareness of global issues and events; 3) describing the
benefits of completing an honors thesis. (first year, fall only)
RSP112 Global Colloquium (1 credit): A rotating set of invited guest speakers share their
expertise in the area of globalization through the lens of their discipline. Faculty who
teach GLB courses, conduct faculty-led study abroad courses, are Global Fellows, or are
administrators and staff tied to international education will be selected to present. Course
is organized with the emphasis on discussion. (first year, spring only)
RSP200 Global Research (3 credits): Globalization, as seen through the disciplines of the
humanities, social sciences, arts, and business will be presented, contrasted, and
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critiqued. Special focus will be given to developing a research acumen to investigate
global issues and problems. Group presentations will require students to apply the
globalization theories learned over the semester. (second year, fall only)
RSP201 Applied Leadership (3 credits): An introduction to and overview of the
fundamental concepts of leadership, this course focuses on the significance and
applicability of leadership theory to everyday action. Through experiential learning
opportunities, students will learn to develop common purpose in groups through strategic
planning and a focus to collective efficiency and potency for change. (second year, spring
only)
RSP400 Senior Seminar (3 credits): The Senior Seminar affords a capstone experience in
which students perform an in-depth examination of a global issues as it relates to the
major they have chosen. The course requires students to draw upon their leadership
training, their coursework so far, and their experiences with other cultures to reexamine
their own positions on topics of global interest. (fall or spring after travel ideal)
RSP497 Special Topics-Study Abroad (3 credits): Changing each summer term, the
course is the study abroad component of the Regents Scholar Program. Course is led by a
faculty member who has excelled in teaching and has a direct interest in global
issues. Theme and destination are decided by the traveling faculty member after
selection by a committee within the Honors College. (summer following third year)
Students who complete the above curriculum with the required grade point average will graduate
with Regents Scholars distinction, noted in the graduation program and with specialized regalia.
Additionally, program students have the opportunity to graduate with Honors by following the
Honors Scholar process mentioned later in this document (Section Two), which include the
successful defense of an Honors thesis.
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Requirements: In addition to curriculum requirements all Honors College and Regents Scholar
students must adhere to the following guidelines:
Students must accept and receive this scholarship during their first semester of enrollment at
Texas A&M University-Commerce to continue the scholarship in subsequent semesters.
Students must complete a FAFSA/TAFSA each academic year. Students must also respond to all
financial aid requests for verification of FAFSA/TAFSA form. Completion of the FAFSA must
occur by July 15th each year.
Student must complete a minimum of fifteen (15) semester hours from Texas A&M University-
Commerce each semester to receive and maintain this scholarship.
Honors College and Regents Scholar students are required to maintain a minimum 3.3
cumulative GPA. Students whose cumulative GPA falls between 3.0 and 3.29 will be assigned
Honors Probationary status, which allows them to raise their GPA while continuing to enjoy
the benefits of the Honors College. An exception is allowed for first-semester freshmen who
may be assigned probationary status with a GPA between 2.7 and 3.29. Students may be on
probation for a maximum of two consecutive semesters. However, a second semester of
probationary status is not automatically guaranteed – students must show progress in their GPA
status to earn the second semester of probation.
Honors College students must live in the Honors Residence Hall during their Freshmen year in
order to receive the Honors College Scholarship. Regents Scholars students are required to live
in program-designated on-campus housing all four years unless approved by the administration
to do otherwise. In order to receive the Housing component of the scholarship package in
subsequent years they must live in the Honors Residence Hall.
The Honors College and Regents Scholars Program scholarships are awarded for eight academic
year semesters (Fall and Spring) or until the Bachelors degree is conferred, whichever comes
first. Note: a student may take 12 concurrent summer hours (i.e., full load during consecutive
summer sessions) in place of a long semester.
A student may drop no more than three classes over the course of the eight semesters on
scholarship. This cap on dropped courses does not include changes made to your schedule before
the semester begins.
Honors College and Regents Scholar students must adhere to the university’s Code of Student
Conduct. The scholarship may be revoked for violations of this policy or for behavior that does
not reflect the standards of The Honors College. Neither abusive behavior toward peers,
faculty, and/or staff nor violations of academic conduct (e.g., cheating, plagiarism) will be
permitted.
Honors College students must complete an Honors Thesis to graduate from the university with
a bachelor’s degree. Students who withdraw from the Honors College before enrolling for their
fifth semester at Texas A&M University - Commerce will not be held to this requirement.
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Honors College and Regents Scholars students are required to complete 24 hours of community
service each semester during their second and third years in the program (total of 96 hours are
required). Further requirements are:
a. Hours must be documented and your participation has to be verified by the event
coordinator. Starting in the Fall of 2019 community service hours will be
document through the ‘Volunteer Opportunities’ App that can be found on your
myLeo page.
b. Serving as a tutor or SI instructor or writing lab instructor can count as
community service even if you are paid for the activity (note – we use the term
community service, not volunteer hours). I don’t want people to choose between
helping other students with academics or finding a volunteer opportunity.
c. A student can ‘bank’ hours. For example, if you accumulate 30 hours this
semester you can apply the ‘extra 6 hours’ to next semester’s requirement.
d. Community service must occur ‘locally’. We define local as Hunt, Delta, and
Hopkins County.
Sub-Section C: For students admitted to the Honors College starting with Fall 2020
Admission: Each year The Honors College at Texas A&M University-Commerce will admit
approximately 100 students. There are no cutoff scores for admission to The Honors College.
However, we are looking for students who have demonstrated an ability to excel in school and
those whose standardized test scores reflect an ability to continue to thrive in an academic
environment. Thus, the selection committee considers both class rank and standardized test scores
in its admission decisions. The typical Honors College student has the following characteristics:
Class Rank – top 10% or better; SAT (combined math and critical reading) of 1290 or higher, ACT
score of 27 or higher. The specific numbers for the 2019 Fall class were: Top 4.7% of graduating
class, 27.8 on the ACT, 1266 on the SAT. It is important to emphasize that these are not cutoff
scores – merely a portrait of the typical Honors College student. In addition to these criteria, the
application essay will be rated by at least two readers. After a review of these criteria, some
students will be invited to campus for an interview. The rubric used to make interview decisions
can be found at the end of this document.
Final decisions on selection for the Honors College will include the quality of the interview and
the match between student, university, and Honors College.
Before applying to the Honors College, students must be accepted to the University. Once
accepted to the university students can submit the Honors College application. The Honors
College application is an online form. Students must submit the Honors application prior to the
published deadlines. Students interested in applying can find the application for admission at
https://dms.tamuc.edu/Forms/honors?_ga=2.23162866.972917.1565816242-
1049937388.1533129624
Benefits: The Honors College experience is designed to increase the educational opportunities
for students while engaging them in a four-year college experience. The benefits of the Honors
College include the following:
Honors courses capped at an enrollment of 25.
Students housed together in apartment style housing. Emphasis is placed on a housing
experience that fosters a residential learning community.
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Fantastic scholarship packages ranging from nearly 100% of the cost of attendance to
50% of the cost of attendance.
A challenging curriculum that culminates in a High Impact Educational Capstone
experience that may include completion of an Honors Thesis, study abroad, and/or a
guided internship.
An emphasis on educational practices that provide students marketable skills
Curriculum: Honors College students should consult with the Honors Academics Coordinator to
determine the particulars of their Honors degree plan. The typical Honors College student will
complete 30 Honors credit in the process of completing their bachelor’s degree. These credits
fall into 3 groupings: (1) Honors credits – Honors College students must complete a minimum of
21Honors Credits. These credits will fall primarily, but not exclusively, out of the University
Studies core. All students must take a writing course during their first year. Honors College
students who have completed ENG 1301 and ENG 1302 before attending TAMU-Commerce
will receive Honors Credit for an upper division English or Philosophy class (e.g., ENG 333) that
is focused on writing during that first semester. (2) Colloquia and Seminars – all Honors College
students will take 3 1-credit courses toward their degree. The first, HC200, functions as the First
Year Success Seminar for entering Honors College students. The second, a 300 level course will
be tied to your proposed capstone experience. Finally, the third course will be a 400 level class
designed to tie your college experiences together. (3) Capstone Hours – each capstone
experience has credit hours tied to it. Specific details will be worked on with your advisor.
An example of the curriculum is inserted here. However, you must meet with your Honors
Advisor to discuss substitutions and to insure that classes have been categorized correctly.
University Studies Core (42 Semester Hours)
Course
+ENG 1301
+ENG 1302
HIST 1301
HIST 1302
PSCI 2301
PSCI 2302
Social and Behavior Sciences: (3SH) See catalog for options
HONORS COLLEGE CURRICULUM PLAN
11
Literature, Philosophy, and Culture (3 SH): See catalog for options
Creative Arts (3 SH): ART1301, 1303, 1304; ENG432, 434; MUS1309, 1308, 1315; PHO1301 or THE1310
*Math 142,176,179, 192, 1314, 1324, 1325, 1332, 1342, 2312, 2413, or 2413
Life and Physical Science (different requirements for science and non-science majors, see catalog or
Degreeworks for options) (6 SH)
Component Area – requirements differ for students pursuing BA vs BS. See Degreeworks for requirements.
(6SH, includes Signature Course and Degree Pathway)
+ If student has credit for ENG 1301 and 1302, and upper division writing intensive ENG or Phil course will
be mandatory as will count as an Honors course.
* THEA scores may require developmental math before college level math
Track Options to Complete Capstone Requirement (Please note – these plans are tentative as new
course offerings have not yet received final approval):
Thesis Track
HC200 1
HC300 (Thesis prep course) 1
HC491 (Proposal) 3
HC490 (Thesis) 3
HC400 (Thesis senior
seminar) 1
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Global Track
HC200 1
HC301 (Global Research) 2
HC497 (Travel) 3
HC401 (Non-thesis senior seminar) 3
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Leadership Track
HC200 1
HC302
(Leadership) 2
HC495
(Internship) 3
HC401 (Non-thesis senior seminar) 3
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Pathways to Honors Graduation
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I. Successful defense of an Honors Thesis. The thesis experience strengthens a
student’s research and critical thinking skills along with improving writing and oral
presentation skills. Completing the thesis is (a) Required of all students who receive
the full scholarship; (b) the default option if student is not chosen to travel abroad and
does not complete an approved internship; (c) Students who successfully defend an
Honors Thesis are eligible for all three levels of Honors (i.e., Honors, High Honors,
Highest Honors).
II. Travel abroad experience. International travel can be a life changing experience that
allows students to see the world from other perspectives. Students can improve their
foreign language skills and traveling invariably tests one’s problem solving skills.
There are only two accepted pathways to completing this requirement: (a) Traveling
internationally with the annual class that is created by the Honors College office. This
trip lasts approximately 3 weeks and occurs during the summer. The optimal time for
this trip would be after the student’s sophomore year of college. Each year
substantial funding for approximately 20 students will be available – students will
apply for one of these spots. The application process is competitive and a spot on the
trip is not guaranteed; (b) Semester study abroad through a recognized program or at
an accredited university. Approval from the Honors College, before the trip, is
required for it to count toward the capstone requirement and graduation with Honors.
A public display of accumulated knowledge is required to receive credit. This public
display will occur in the 400 level non-thesis senior seminar.
III. Internship experience. Internships are yet another High Impact Educational Practice.
Internships allow students to hone their problem solving and communication skills
(among other skills). Students can fulfill this requirement through the following
pathways: (a) HC office sponsored internship. Each semester the Honors College
will provide the funding for up to 20 university departments to employ a student
worker. Departments will compete for this opportunity and will have to assure that
the student is provided with a meaningful project based assignment during their
internship; (b) Department/University approved internship. At times, university
students can secure an internship through their department (HHP is a good example
of this) or through the Career Development office. Approval from the Honors
College, before the internship, is required for it to count toward the capstone
requirement and graduation with Honors.
A public display of accumulated knowledge is required to receive credit. This public
display will occur in the 400 level non-thesis senior seminar.
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IV. Determining Level of Honors.
a. Honors – There are multiple pathways to earning graduation with Honors. If a
student completes the Travel Abroad or Internship Experience they will be
granted Honors graduation status (after appropriate public display of knowledge).
Additionally, a student may defend their Honors Thesis and the committee may
determine that their work merits Honors status. A minimum of graduation with
Honors is required for any Honors College student who begins their 5th semester
under scholarship.
b. High Honors – A student’s may defend their thesis and if their committee feels
that their work merits High Honors, than that status will be accorded at
graduation. Additionally, if a student successfully completes two or more of the
three pathways to Honors (i.e., thesis, international travel, internship) they will be
granted High Honors graduation status.
c. Highest Honors – Only students who defend a thesis that is viewed as exemplary
by their committee will be provided Graduation with Highest Honors status.
V. HC200, 300, 301 and 302: Pathways to Honors*
a. Our hope is that all of our students will choose to take advantage of all the High
Impact Education Practices available to them. However, we know that students
have limits in their time and resources. Thus, portions of the Freshman Success
Course HC200 will be used to help students determine which pathway is optimal
for their resources and goals.
b. A series of courses have been designed to prepare you for your capstone
experience.
i. HC300 is our ‘thesis’ preparation class. It is designed to help you
understand what a thesis comprises and walks you through the early stages
of the process. Optimally, it should be taken during your second year in
the program. It is permissible to take it during the second semester after
consultation with the Honors advisor.
ii. HC301 is our Global Research class. This class focuses on the many ways
that the countries and systems of the world are connected. The ultimate
goal is to help you on your journey to becoming a global citizen. The short
term goal is to make you better prepared to journey outside of the United
States. This class should be taken during your third semester in the
program.
iii. HC302 is our Leadership class. This class is designed to enhance your
teamwork and leadership abilities with the goal of assisting you in
maximizing the internship experience. This class should be taken during
your third semester in the program.
VI. Public Displays of Mastery
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a. Thesis Track – successful proposal and final thesis defenses. All defenses are
open to the public. In addition, students defending their thesis in their final Spring
semester of graduation shall be required to present their research at the
University’s Annual Research Symposium.
b. Global/International Travel and Leadership/Internship Tracks – Students will
enroll in HC401 after their capstone experience and assignments will help
students to operationalize the marketable skills gained during the experience. A
public display of this learning will be included amongst the assignments.
* Please note – this is a tentative plan as new course offerings have not received final approval at
this time.
15
Requirements: In addition to curriculum requirements all Honors College students must adhere
to the following guidelines.
Students must accept and receive this scholarship during their first semester of enrollment at
Texas A&M University-Commerce to continue the scholarship in subsequent semesters.
Students must complete a FAFSA/TAFSA each academic year. Students must also respond to all
financial aid requests for verification of FAFSA/TAFSA form. Completion of the FAFSA must
occur by July 15th each year.
Student must complete a minimum of fifteen (15) semester hours from Texas A&M University-
Commerce each semester to receive and maintain this scholarship.
Honors College students are required to maintain a minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA. Students
whose cumulative GPA falls between 3.0 and 3.29 will be assigned Honors Probationary status,
which allows them to raise their GPA while continuing to enjoy the benefits of the Honors
College. An exception is allowed for first-semester freshmen who may be assigned
probationary status with a GPA between 2.7 and 3.29. Students may be on probation for a
maximum of two consecutive semesters. However, a second semester of probationary status is
not automatically guaranteed – students must show progress in their GPA status to earn the
second semester of probation.
Honors College students must live in the Honors Residence Hall during their Freshmen year in
order to receive the Honors College Scholarship. In order to receive the Housing component
of the scholarship package in subsequent years they must live in the Honors Residence Hall.
The Honors College scholarship is awarded for eight academic year semesters (Fall and Spring)
or until the bachelors degree is conferred, whichever comes first. Note: a student may take 12
concurrent summer hours (i.e., full load during consecutive summer sessions) in place of a long
semester.
A student may drop no more than three classes over the course of the eight semesters on
scholarship. This cap on dropped courses does not include changes made to your schedule before
the semester begins.
Honors College students must adhere to the university’s Code of Student Conduct. The
scholarship may be revoked for violations of this policy or for behavior that does not reflect the
standards of The Honors College. Neither abusive behavior toward peers, faculty, and/or staff
nor violations of academic conduct (e.g., cheating, plagiarism) will be permitted.
Honors College students must complete a public evaluation of their capstone experience to
graduate from the university with a bachelor’s degree. Students who withdraw from the Honors
College before enrolling for their fifth semester at Texas A&M University - Commerce will not
be held to this requirement.
Honors College students will be required to complete 24 hours of community service each
semester during their second and third years in the Honors College (total of 96 hours are
required). Further requirements are:
16
a. Hours must be documented and your participation has to be verified by the event
coordinator. Starting in the Fall of 2019 community service hours will be
document through the ‘Volunteer Opportunities’ App that can be found on your
myLeo page.
b. Serving as a tutor or SI instructor or writing lab instructor can count as
community service even if you are paid for the activity (note – we use the term
community service, not volunteer hours). I don’t want people to choose between
helping other students with academics or finding a volunteer opportunity.
c. A student can ‘bank’ hours. For example, if you accumulate 30 hours this
semester you can apply the ‘extra 6 hours’ to next semester’s requirement.
d. Community service must occur ‘locally’. We define local as Hunt, Delta, and
Hopkins Counties.
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Section Two: The Honors Scholar Program
The Honors Scholar Program provides students who are not in the Honors College with an
opportunity to reap many of the benefits of the Honors experience and to graduate with an
Honors designation. Student may enter the Honors Scholar program by many different avenues:
including the Regents Scholars Program, self-nomination, nomination by department, Phi Theta
Kappa transfers, or students who come to Honors later in their college experience. There are no
entrance criteria – only graduation requirements. To apply, students need to complete an
application for Honors
(http://www.tamuc.edu/academics/specialPrograms/HonorsPrograms/images/Honors%20PROG
RAM%20Application.pdf) and bring it to The Honors Office on the first floor of Prairie
Crossing.
To graduate with the Honors Scholar designation, students must:
1. Have at least a cumulative 3.3 GPA at the time of graduation.
2. Take at least TWO Honors classes (i.e., enrollment is restricted to Honors Students) A
student must receive a B or higher to receive Honors credit for the course. These courses will
be marked by with an H on the student’s transcript. Occasionally, students may not be able to
fit Honors only classes in their schedule. In this case, they may receive Honors credit by
contract. The contract form is available on the Honors webpage at
(http://www.tamuc.edu/academics/specialPrograms/HonorsPrograms/images/Honors%20By
%20Contract.pdf)
3. Must take one semester of the Honors Colloquium: Thesis Preparation (HC300) for one
credit hour.
4. Must successfully complete Honors Readings (491) and Honors Thesis (490).
a) Honors Readings (491)
Students enroll in Honors Readings to prepare the Honors thesis proposal Students
enroll in Honors Readings (491) in the department in which they are planning to
research and write an Honors thesis. Each student works with an academic advisor.
The advisor and Dean of Honors must approve the Honors thesis proposal before it is
submitted to the student’s thesis committee. The Proposal Pre-Defense form must be
signed before the defense date is set. The thesis committee will consist of the student’s
advisor, a second faculty member from the department (or an expert in the topic area),
and a member of the University Honors Council. The University Honors Council
member will be appointed by the Dean of Honors. Upon approval by the committee,
the proposal must receive final approval from the Dean of Honors. Each semester, the
Honors office posts a key dates and deadlines handout with proposal submission
deadlines.
The student must electronically submit the Honors thesis proposal to the Honors Dean
so that it can be disseminated to the committee.
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Failure to Complete the Honors Thesis Proposal. Occasionally, personal or
professional commitments prevent the student from completing the Honors thesis
proposal. If a student registers for Honors Readings 491, fails to submit the written
proposal to the University Honors Committee Honors, and does not withdraw from the
course, a grade of I (in progress) will be entered on the transcript and will remain
unchanged.
b) Honors Thesis (490)
Once the Honors thesis proposal has been accepted by the University Honors
Committee, the student, under the direction of his/her Honors advisor completes the
Honors thesis. The student must successfully defend the Honors thesis prior to
graduation.
To schedule the Honors thesis defense, the student must meet with the Honors director
who will work with the student and the advisor to set up a mutually agreed upon date
and time. The Honors office will provide you with more details about the Honors thesis
defense, printing out your final thesis, and final preparations for graduation with
Honors.
Failure to Complete the Honors Thesis. Occasionally, personal or professional
commitments prevent the student from completing Honors Thesis 490 even after the
Honors thesis proposal has been approved. If a student registers for Honors Thesis 490
and fails to complete the Honors Thesis and does not withdraw from the course, a grade
of I (in progress) will be entered on the transcript and will remain unchanged.
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Section Three: General Honors Information
I. Rubric for determining interview eligibility
II. A Non-exhaustive Timeline for the Thesis Process
The following is not meant to be a complete description of everything that you need to know
about the thesis process. Nor will every student experience the thesis in this exact order. Instead,
its purpose is to lay out the basic steps that you will undertake and to get you thinking about
what you need to do.
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Step 1: Choose a major. Your thesis does not have to be done in your major. However, most
people do the thesis in their major area for obvious reasons (e.g., familiarity with and interest in
material).
Step 2: Enroll in HC300
Step 3: Choose an advisor. This is the single most important step in the process. There are
numerous things to consider in making this choice. Is the person knowledgeable in the area that
you want to pursue? Is their personality a good match with yours? Does their working style
complement yours? Do they have the time to commit to the thesis process?
Step 4: Enroll in 491 and write your proposal. See separate sheet for thoughts on writing the
proposal. Your advisor and the Dean of Honors must approve your proposal before moving on
to your proposal defense.
Step 5a: Form your committee and defend your proposal. The thesis committee will consist of
the student’s advisor, a second faculty member from the department (or an expert in the topic
area), and a member of the University Honors Council. The University Honors Council member
will be appointed by the Dean of the Honors College. Upon approval by the committee, the
proposal must receive final approval from the Dean of the Honors College. The defense
generally consists of a 10-15 minute presentation followed up by questions and suggestions from
your committee.
Step 5b: If necessary, get the appropriate institutional approval to conduct your project. That is,
if you are using human or animal subjects you’ll need to get ethical approval to begin collecting
data (IRB and IACUC, respectively).
Step 6: Enroll in 490 and write your thesis.
Step 7: Defend your thesis. At a minimum, students should aim to defend their thesis in the Fall
of their Senior year. The thesis process will take longer than you expect. Do not aim to finish at
the very end of your senior year. You may find that you need to enroll for one more semester
(Remember: Students in the Honors College cannot receive a bachelor’s degree until they have
successfully defended their thesis project).
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III. A Shortened Guide to Honors Proposals, Theses, and Defenses
Although a thesis is a large process that requires attention to detail, many of the most important
points can be boiled down to a few key ideas. I will try to provide these highlights below.
Thesis Proposals
o Should not be lengthy. The best proposals tend to be in the 6-15 page range (not
including references, appendices, etc.). You are providing a “roadmap” to your project –
not writing a term paper.
o Although an exhaustive review of the literature should occur before any project is
undertaken, the student should only provide a brief review of the relevant literature in
their proposal. This summary of the literature should clearly lead the reader to the
proposed project.
o Methodology should be as detailed as possible. This section, if done right, will be cut
and pasted into your final thesis (although you will change the tense from future to
past!!!!).
o Proposals will be defended in front of a committee that includes an outside member who
is unlikely to be an “expert” in the proposed field. Thus, proposals should be written so
that “non-experts” can understand them.
o Grammar and syntax matter. The expectation exists that Honors graduates should
demonstrate above average writing ability.
Theses
o Grammar and syntax matter (see above )
o There is no single correct format for the thesis. That is, the dictates of your field should
guide the presentation.
o Choose the style manual most relevant to your field of study and then use it assiduously.
APA, MLA, Turabian – whatever you use, use it well and consistently.
o Assume that you will make changes before the thesis is sent to the library to be digitally
archived.
o Certain projects may benefit from different thesis formats. For example, a process
journal (in conjunction with a gallery show) may be a more appropriate written document
than a thesis for a photography student. If you and your advisor believe that this may be
the case please contact the Dean of the Honors College to discuss the matter.
Proposal and Thesis Defenses
o Oral defenses are an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to talk
intelligently in an academic setting.
o Students should provide a brief (10-15 minute) overview of their project. Then the floor
will be opened for questions, comments, and suggestions.
o Although questions will generally focus on the research project, students may be asked to
assimilate other relevant information (e.g., relation of their research to the “real world”)
into the defense.
o Defenses typically last between 45-60 minutes.
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o Committee members should include: the student’s advisor, a member of the Honors
Council (chosen by the Honors Dean), and a faculty member chosen by the student. This
faculty member chosen by the student should, optimally, be well versed in the topic being
defended. The Dean of the Honors College may participate in the defense, but is a non-
voting member unless invited unto the committee.
o If a student has technical requirements (e.g., Power Point, DVD player) for the defense,
the Dean should be notified as early as possible.
o Certain majors and disciplines may benefit from different defense formats (e.g., music,
photography). If you and your advisor believe that this may be the case please contact
the Dean of the Honors College to discuss the matter.
o All defenses are open to the public.
IV. Honors Thesis Proposal Pre-Defense Form
The Honor College Process for Thesis Proposal
Submission of the thesis proposal is a major step in the academic history of an Honor College student at Texas A&M University-
Commerce. Below are guidelines to help you navigate through this important time. Students are expected to uphold the highest
standards of research conduct and strictly adhere to all federal, state, and local regulations involving research.
To ensure integrity and compliance in research, all students involved in research activities must successfully complete training in
Responsible Conduct in Research and Scholarship (http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/training/Responsible-Conduct-
in-Research.aspx). Additional training is required for individuals (see #2 below) whose research involves human or animal
subjects. All applicable trainings must be completed before you submit your thesis proposal. If your research requires A&M-
Commerce Institutional Review Board (IRB) or Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) approval you may wait to submit
your protocol to the respective board until after you defend your thesis proposal. However, let me reiterate – no data can be
collected until you have passed your thesis proposal defense and have secured approval from the appropriate review board (i.e.,
IRB or IACUC).
Prior to submitting your thesis proposal:
1. You must complete the online training for Responsible Conduct in Research and Scholarship (http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/training/Responsible-Conduct-in-Research.aspx) before you submit your schedule form. Attach a copy of the certificate of training to the schedule form. This training is required of all thesis students and is good for three (3) years.
Prior to collecting data:
2. You must complete the following if your proposed research/study involves: Human Subjects: Human Subjects research is defined as a systematic investigation designed to develop or
contribute to generalize knowledge, which involves the collection of data from or about living human beings. In
addition, all student research involving human subjects outside the classroom is considered to be in this category
(see http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/training/protection-human-subjects-training.aspx).
a. You must complete the Human Subjects online training and gain approval for the inclusion of human subjects in your research/study from the IRB for the Protection of Human Subjects. The online training can be accessed at the following website: http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/training/protection-human-
subjects-training.aspx.
b. You must gain IRB approval for your study. The process to gain approval from the IRB includes completion, submission, and revisions (if required by your Departmental IRB Representative and/or IRB) of the IRB protocol form (see http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/IRB-
Protection_of_Human_Subjects/default.aspx). IRB protocol forms must be submitted to the Office of Sponsored Programs by your thesis advisor. Students may not submit the IRB protocol. Final approval for the inclusion of human subjects in your research/study rests with the IRB.
Animal Subjects: Animal subjects are defined as any live, vertebrate animal (see
http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/IACUC-Animal-Research/default.aspx).
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a. You must complete the Animal Subjects online training and gain approval for the inclusion of animal subjects in your research/study from the Institutional for care of use of animals. The online training can be accessed at the following website: http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/IACUC-Animal-
Research/Training_Information.aspx
b. You must gain IACUC approval for your study. The process to gain approval from the IACUC includes completion, submission, and revisions (if required by the IACUC) of the IACUC protocol form (see Research Protocols Form A at http://www.tamuc.edu/research/compliance/IACUC-Animal-
Research/AUP%20Creation/default.aspx). IACUC protocol forms must be submitted to the Office of Sponsored Programs. Final approval for the inclusion of animal subjects in your research/study rests with the IACUC. Attach IACUC approval email to schedule form.
3. Submit the attached form (filled out and all signatures), all training completion certificates, and an electronic copy of
your thesis proposal to The Honors College in order to begin the process of scheduling your thesis proposal defense. Your proposal will be reviewed by Honors College staff to insure that it meets Honor’s standards. Once that has been determined the Honors College office will appoint an Honors College representative to your thesis committee and will reach out to you and your committee to schedule a time for the defense.
Honors College
Proposal Pre-Defense Form
This form must be submitted to and approved by the Dean of the Honors College in order to schedule your proposal defense. If your research/study involves human subjects and/or vertebrae animals, you must not have any contact with your subjects until this form is approved, your proposal is successfully defended, and until you have the appropriate IRB and/or IACUC approvals. It is the responsibility of the student to get all required signatures. An electronic copy of the thesis proposal must be emailed to Dr. Green at [email protected].
STUDENT INFORMATION
Student Name: CWID: Date:
Address:
Email:_________________ Degree: Major:
Title of Thesis Proposal:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Second Committee Member: ____________________________________
COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS All students are required to be in compliance with University and the TAMU System regulations regarding responsible conduct in research and scholarship, the protection of human subjects, animal care and use, bio-safety and export control. As a result, students are required to complete the following before submitting this thesis proposal form.
1. All students are required to complete the online training for the Responsible Conduct in Research & Scholarship (attach certificate of completion of training to this proposal pre-defense form).
2. If human or animal subjects are involved in this proposed research/study you must a. Complete the online training for the appropriate area, human subjects or animal care and use (attach
certificate of completion of the training to this proposal pre-defense form). b. And please remember, prior to you having any contact with human subjects/animals approval must be
gained from the appropriate committee: (1) Institutional Review Board for the protection of human subjects or 2) Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee for animal care and use. It is permissible to submit your IRB/IACUC protocol after your proposal defense – but you may not collect data until you have approval from the respective review panel.
This research/study (select one):
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Involves Human Subjects (Human Subjects research is defined as a systematic investigation designed to develop or contribute to generalize knowledge, which involves the collection of data from or about living human beings. In addition, all student research involving human subjects outside the classroom is considered to be in this category.)
Involves Animal Subjects (Animal subjects are defined as any live, vertebrate animal)
Does not involve Human or Animal Subjects
Student’s Signature:
Approval to Schedule Proposal Defense
Thesis Advisor: (print) (signature)
Dean of Honors: (signature) (date)
V. Honors Organizations
There are many Honors organizations at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Generally speaking,
each academic department or specialized area has an affiliation with an Honors organization at the
national level. For example, Sigma Tau Delta is the international Honors Society for English
Majors and Minors, and Psi Chi is the national Psychology Honors Society. However, these and
other specialized honors societies are not technically part of the Honors Program.
1. Student Organizations: Two Honors organizations come under the supervision of the Dean
of Honors:
a) Student Honors Council (SHC). Application for membership is open to any student who
is currently or has been actively involved in some phase of the Honors Program; or
someone who has completed an Honors course, or a person who is taking or has taken
Honors Colloquium, or a student who is actively engaged in some phase of the Honors
Thesis. The SHC can accommodate up to 17 members. Members elect a president, vice-
president, treasurer, and secretary, Student Representative and Social Media Chair. for each
academic year. Duties of the SHC include:
Proposing changes or modification to the Honors Program.
Publicizing the Honors Program through flyers, visits to Honors classes, etc.
Selecting the Honors Professor of the Year.
Recognizing contributions made by faculty and staff involved in the Honors Program.
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Providing suggestions for programming including speakers, films, and field trips.
Organizing and planning annual activities for the Honors Programs, including but not
limited to the annual Honors Banquet, the Welcome Back Event, etc.
Participating in and recruiting for public community service events around the campus
and city, including but not limited to Operation Blue and Gold, Trick or Treat on the
Square, etc.
b) Phi Kappa Phi: The University was awarded a chapter of Phi Kappa Phi in August 2013.
Phi Kappa Phi is the oldest, and perhaps most prestigious, general honor society in the
country. Requirements include: (i) Completion of at least 24 semester hours at Texas A&M
University-Commerce; (ii) Juniors (defined as 72 hours or better) must be in the top 7.5%
of their class, seniors and graduate students in the top 10% . Final determination of
suitability will be decided by the Chapter Officers at Texas A&M University-Commerce
2. Faculty Organization: The supervisory body for the Honors Program is the University
Honors Council which consists of faculty members from across the university. The University
Honors Committee is appointed by and serves at the discretion of the President and CEO of
the University. The Honors Dean chairs the University Honors Committee. The duties of the
committee include:
a) Providing a representative to act as an outside committee member for all Thesis proposals
defenses.
b) Approving or disapproving initiatives forwarded by the SHC.
c) Instituting changes or modifications in the Honors Program.
d) Providing assistance in the interviewing and selection of Honors College applicants.
VI. OVERVIEW and FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why Should I Enroll in Honors?
It sets you apart from the average undergraduate. Even if you take only one Honors course, it
is listed on your transcript with an H designation. If you pursue and acquire an Honors degree,
you stand apart from the ordinary Texas A & M University-Commerce graduate, and you are
immediately attractive to a graduate school or potential employer.
2. Who Is Eligible to Take Honors Courses?
Registration for all Honors courses at the university are by permit only. Students in the Honors
College are automatically permitted to enroll in these courses. Students in the Honors Scholar
program should contact the Honors Academics Coordinator to receive a permit to enter an
Honors section. In addition, individual departments can “nominate” students for an Honors
section. These nominations should be sent to the Dean of Honors so that information
concerning Honors can be sent to the student. Please check the Schedule of Classes for a given
semester to see which Honors classes are offered.
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3. What Are Some of the Benefits Involved in Being Part of the Honors Program?
a) Small classes. Each Honors course is usually limited to 20-25 students. The course is
taught by a seasoned, full-time faculty member. Students can thus expect a meaningful
letter of recommendation in the future because the instructor will remember the student.
b) Mentoring. Students who elect to pursue graduation with Honors have the unique
opportunity to work one-on-one with a faculty member while completing their Honors
thesis. Undergraduates are rarely afforded access to the excitement and personal fulfillment
generated by such scholarly endeavors.
4. What Will Graduation with Honors Do for Me?
All students who graduate with Honors have their names, thesis titles, and advisors listed in
the commencement program, and each Honors graduate receives a blue and gold fourragere
from his or her advisor during the Honors graduation ceremony. More importantly, an Honors
degree follows a student for the rest of his or her life. Recent Honors graduates have confirmed
that they had an advantage in getting a job, winning a scholarship, being hired in an ISD, etc.,
because they graduated with Honors.
5. What Can I Do for the Honors Program?
Promote the Honors Program up on campus. All the advertising in the world does not match
word-of-mouth praise for an instructor or a valuable Honors experience.
Other Information
It is important that you keep the Honors office informed of your current contact information and
your progress as you complete the Honors Program.
Dr. Raymond J. Green, Dean
The Honors College
Mrs. Jennifer Hudson
Director of Honors Programming
Mrs. Brittney Yager
Honors Academic Coordinator
Mrs. Kay Hatfield
Administrative Associate to the Dean
