School of Liberal Arts and Cultures Launches Honors Program
Minneapolis College launched its Honors Program within the School of Liberal Arts and Cultures with its first cohort spring semester. The program is tailored for students who desire an educational opportunity that will spark their curiosity, drive community connection and provide learning opportunities that encourage student success both inside and outside of the classroom.
“The first cohort drew a strong group of students who wanted the opportunity to be active participants in their learning,” said Darren Wieland, English faculty member and director of the Honors Program, who notes the curriculum is aligned with the best practices of the National Collegiate Honors Council. “This is a student-driven experience that builds community among its cohort and develops strong academic and leadership skills among its participants.”
“If students are not afraid to present their ideas, stretch their own learning and encourage one another, this is the place for them,” said Jessica Prody, PhD, Interim Dean, School of Liberal Arts and Cultures at Minneapolis College. “We are looking for new participants every semester and our focus is on strength of character and academic potential rather than test scores or GPA.”
Opportunities available within the new Honors Program include:
- Honors scholarships for qualifying students eliminate costs associated with the program
- Fifteen honors credits on college transcripts
- Faculty mentors known for excellence in teaching
- One-on-one academic advising
- A student-driven Honors curriculum
- A supportive and driven community of peers
- Campus and community engagement opportunities
Students enrolled in the Honors Program will take 15 credits of honors designated coursework in the process of completing their Associate of Arts Degree. Coursework will build understanding on issues such as equity and inclusion, citizenship, responsible community engagement in addition to leadership skills that focus on investigating, assessing, and reporting knowledge.
When Sharon Pierce began her Presidency at Minneapolis College, one of her goals was to add an Honors Program to our academic offerings. “I knew the College had the academic rigor, teaching excellence and extraordinary student services in order to develop and offer an exemplary program. Providing our well-prepared students access to an Honors experience is part of our commitment to being a leader in equity and inclusion.”