Academic Foundation
The Lee College Honors Program serves intellectually curious, academically talented, and highly motivated students who seek a deeper and more engaged learning experience. Rooted in the college’s mission to provide quality instruction and prepare students for success in higher education and beyond, the program cultivates academic excellence, critical inquiry, and meaningful connection among students and faculty.
Founded in 1974 with the interdisciplinary American Studies course, Honors at Lee College has always been a collaborative, faculty- and student-driven initiative. Today, the program continues that tradition by offering students the opportunity to explore subjects in greater depth through dedicated courses and honors contracts that emphasize primary texts, discussion, and experiential projects.
Participation in the program has many benefits, including scholarships, chances to participate in cultural and academic events and field trips, and opportunities to engage in community service. Participation also allows Honors students an opportunity to distinguish themselves academically in preparation for transfer and employment. Through these ventures, we help students develop the confidence and curiosity that define lifelong learners and leaders.
Recognition and Benefits
All Honors coursework is individually annotated on the student's transcript. Students who complete the full program receive an additional transcript notation marking them as completers of the Lee College Honors Program.
These distinctions can enhance transfer applications, and some four-year institutions with honors colleges or programs may recognize honors credit earned at Lee College.
Active participation in the Honors Program — through enrollment in honors courses or completion of contracts — also makes students eligible for exclusive honors scholarships.
Students who actively participate in the program for at least one academic year are eligible for a graduation cord, while those who complete the program are also eligible to receive a personalized, engraved medallion. For more information on recognition and benefits, please see Scholarships and Recognition.
Admission to the Program
The application to the Lee College Honors Program is holistic, taking into account a student's academic performance, faculty recommendations, and long-term educational goals.
In general, students who have been admitted to and successfully completed the program have:
- A 3.5+ GPA on nine or more college credits, and/or
- A 3.75+ high school GPA
However, exceptions are made for otherwise outstanding or highly recommended applicants — so all interested students are encouraged to apply. For full details, visit the Apply to the Program page.
Maintaining Eligibility
Continued eligibility in the Honors Program depends on active participation in and completion of Honors coursework or contracts and on maintaining good academic standing.
Failing an Honors course (earning a D or F), withdrawing from Honors courses or contracts after the census date (especially repeatedly), or failing to remain active in the program for an extended period may result in the loss of eligibility. Students who lose eligibility may reapply once they feel they are again in a place to successfully complete honors coursework.
For answers to common questions, please see our Program FAQ.