Benefits of Honors

What Are the Benefits of Doing Honors in College? 

(And Why MTSU Honors Stands Out)

If you’re asking whether an honors program is worth it, you’re not alone. Most students hear the same promises (smaller classes, better opportunities, stronger resumes), but few pages explain what those actually look like in practice.

Here’s the straightforward answer:

Honors programs offer smaller, discussion-based classes, priority registration, undergraduate research opportunities, and a built-in academic community. Done right, they can give you a measurable advantage in graduate school admissions and the job market.

But not all honors programs deliver those benefits the same way.

At Middle Tennessee State University, the Honors College is built to go beyond the basics, which gives students structured opportunities, faculty access, and real-world experience that translate into outcomes.

The Real Benefits of Honors in College

1. Smaller Classes That Push You to Think

In a typical college lecture, it’s easy to sit back and take notes. Honors classes don’t work that way.

Honors courses are often discussion-based, writing-intensive, and designed to challenge how you think and what you know. You’ll work closely with faculty and classmates who expect you to show up prepared and contribute.

Why it matters:

• Stronger critical thinking and communication skills
• More meaningful relationships with professors
• Better preparation for graduate-level work

“I chose the Honors College for its smaller class sizes, providing an environment for increased interaction with professors and fostering a more personalized and engaging learning experience. Additionally, I joined to be part of a hardworking group that shares my values and aspirations—these are the kind of people I want to surround myself with.”

Rand Hasan, Honors Ambassador and 2024 Biochemistry graduate

2. Priority Registration That Keeps You on Track

This is one of the most overlooked benefits, and one of the most practical.

Honors students register for classes earlier than the general student population. That means:

• You get the courses you need, when you need them
• You avoid scheduling conflicts that delay graduation
• You stay on track for a four-year degree

Bottom line: Less frustration. Less wasted time. More control over your academic path.

3. Real Undergraduate Research (Not Just a Line on a Website)

Many schools talk about research. Fewer require it.

At MTSU, Honors students complete a thesis or creative project under faculty mentorship. This isn’t busywork. It’s original research that demonstrates your ability to think independently and produce meaningful work.

What that looks like:

• One-on-one faculty guidance
• Presentation opportunities
• A polished project you can show employers or graduate schools

4. A Built-In Resume Advantage

An honors designation signals something specific: you took on more work—and delivered.

Graduates leave with:

• A completed thesis or capstone project
• Strong faculty recommendations
• Evidence of advanced writing, research, and analytical skills

Why it matters:
Graduate schools and employers aren’t just looking for GPAs. They want proof you can handle complex work. Honors gives you that proof.

5. A Community That Raises the Standard

You don’t succeed in a vacuum.

Honors students are surrounded by peers who are motivated, engaged, and serious about their goals. That kind of environment changes how you work and what you expect from yourself.

What you gain:

• Academic accountability
• Collaborative learning
• Long-term professional networks

“The Honors College is more than just a place for academic excellence; it is a community that fosters mentorship and collaboration. Whether through undergraduate thesis research or engaging discussions in student-centered classrooms, I have learned that true scholarship is not just about acquiring knowledge but also using it to uplift others. The environment of the Honors College, rooted in integrity and curiosity, shapes confidence and prepares you for whatever the future may bring. Being part of this program means holding the lamp of learning high and pushing boundaries to pursue knowledge.”

Rashieq Cockerham, Honors Ambassador, Buchanan Transfer Fellow, Veteran Leadership Award recipient, and 2025 Biology graduate

6. Access to Scholarships, Study Abroad, and Leadership Opportunities

Honors programs often open doors that aren’t as accessible elsewhere.

At MTSU, Honors students can:

• Compete for prestigious scholarships like the Buchanan Fellowship
• Study abroad in programs tied directly to Honors coursework
• Take on leadership roles within the Honors College

These aren’t extras—they’re part of the experience.

Is Doing Honors in College Worth It?

Here’s the honest answer: it depends on what you do with it.

Honors is worth it if you:

• Plan to attend graduate or professional school
• Want closer relationships with faculty
• Are willing to take on more challenging coursework
• Want to stand out in a competitive job market

Honors may not be worth it if you:

• Want the easiest path to a degree
• Don’t plan to engage beyond basic requirements
• Aren’t interested in research or writing-intensive work

Reality check: Honors is not a free credential. It requires effort. But for students who use it well, the return is clear.

“I wasn’t even planning to go to college, and now I’ve been able to pursue opportunities I never imagined. I’ve learned that you really can get far in life by just showing up and being there. MTSU taught me how to work hard, build real connections, and be part of a community that will benefit me for the rest of my life. Being a Buchanan Fellow really helped my college journey. It allowed me to focus on school, and that was just amazing.”

Victoria Grigsby, Buchanan Fellow, Fall 2025 graduate, Political Science and German double major

Why the MTSU Honors College Is Different

Many honors programs offer similar benefits on paper. What sets MTSU apart is how those benefits are structured and delivered.

The Buchanan Freshman/Transfer Fellowships

MTSU’s flagship scholarship programs provide:

• Financial support
• Specialized coursework
• A cohort-based experience that builds leadership and connection

A Strong Focus on Undergraduate Research

Honors students often complete a thesis or creative project. That means when they graduate, they leave with:

• A substantial academic or creative work
• Demonstrated research ability
• A clear example of their skills

Study Abroad That Expands Perspective

Honors students regularly participate in study abroad experiences (from Europe to Asia) integrated into their academic plans.

Real Student Outcomes

MTSU Honors students:

• Earn national scholarships
• Gain acceptance into competitive graduate programs
• Secure positions in a wide range of industries

This isn’t theoretical—it’s happening every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Take the Next Step

If you’re considering Honors, don’t settle for general promises. Look at what the program actually delivers.

At MTSU, Honors is built around:

• Academic challenge
• Faculty mentorship
• Real-world outcomes

Explore your options, talk to current students, and decide if it aligns with your goals.

“Being a Buchanan Transfer Fellow has truly taught me so many skills in being a leader and having those skills of personal growth in my tool belt. I had always struggled with the concept of being a leader and what that looks like. Being in the Honors College gave me the chance to grow into that. All the professors in our program are student‑focused and want to see us succeed—they give us all the tools to do so.”

Lena Eccles, Buchanan Transfer Fellow and Honors Ambassador, 2026 Nutrition graduate

“Choosing the Honors College gave me the opportunity to study the subjects I’ve always wanted to learn about without the stress. Thanks to the Buchanan Transfer Fellowship, this was possible without the constant worry of the financial burden and debt weighing me down!”

Lexi Flick, Buchanan Transfer Fellow, and 2024 Professional Studies graduate