Is Presidential Honors Right for You?

Here at Tarleton our mission is to transform generations by inspiring discovery, leadership and service through educational excellence. One way we are doing this is through our Presidential Honors program. A subsect of the Honors program, Presidential Honors offers students a way to challenge themselves and become better prepared for their future.

PRESDIENTIAL HONORS 1

Admission Criteria

As an incoming freshman you must meet these requirements to be considered for the program

  • class rank (generally top 10 percent)
  • ACT/SAT (generally a minimum ACT of 27 and new SAT of 1260)
  • participation in high school Honors, AP, or Gifted Talented classes
  • quality of essays
  • extracurricular activities
  • service to school and community
  • letters of recommendation

If you meet all of these requirements and are a finalist you may be asked to come in for an on campus interview

On a space available basis, returning students and transfer students with up to a maximum of one year of college credit may also be considered

Expectations

Presidential Honors Scholars must maintain at least a 3.4 cumulative Tarleton GPA. They must complete a minimum of 12 hours of academic courses every semester while also making significant progress toward their chosen degree. Presidential Honors Scholars complete Honors courses, Presidential Honors Seminars, and an Honors thesis. Presidential Honors Scholars are also expected to provide leadership and service to the University and the community.

Presidential Honors Program Curriculum
  • At least 18 hours of honors credits (through honors core courses and honors contracts)
  • HNRS 1185
  • HNRS 1185
  • HNRS 2185
  • HNRS 2185
  • HNRS 3385
  • Successfully complete an Honors Thesis

Scholarships

The Honors College will admit an incoming class of 25 Presidential Honors Scholars each academic year. All Presidential Honors Scholars receive a scholarship from the Honors College.  Amounts vary based on availability of funds and student’s need, but our goal is to get students to the $10,000 award cap. In addition, students who are admitted to Tarleton by January 15 and have completed a scholarship application by February 15 will be considered for a $1,000 President’s Texan Scholarship.

University President Dr. James Hurley giving a talk to Presidential Honors students on the topic of leadership
University President Dr. James Hurley giving a talk to Presidential Honors students on the topic of leadership

Student Testimony

As double major in electrical engineering and computer science here at Tarleton State University, my journey through the Presidential Honors Program (PHP) has been nothing short of transformative. The program’s emphasis on the humanities has not only broadened my academic horizons but has also honed my writing and communication skills, making me a more well-rounded individual prepared for the challenges of the future.

One of the most significant benefits I’ve gained from the PHP is the opportunity to delve into areas of study outside my technical field. Engaging with literature, philosophy, history, and the arts has provided me with a deeper understanding of the world around me and has fostered critical thinking skills that complement my scientific training. This interdisciplinary approach has enriched my perspective, allowing me to approach problems with creativity and adaptability.

Moreover, the PHP seminars have been particularly impactful and engaging. These sessions have facilitated meaningful discussions on various topics, encouraging me to voice my opinions and engage in thoughtful dialogue with my peers. Through these interactions, I’ve developed not only my analytical abilities but also my interpersonal skills, learning how to communicate complex ideas effectively and respectfully.

Looking ahead, I am confident that the skills and experiences gained through the PHP will serve me well in my future endeavors. Whether I’m designing circuits, writing code, or collaborating with colleagues, I know that my ability to communicate clearly and think critically will set me apart. The program has equipped me with the tools necessary to tackle the challenges of the rapidly evolving technological landscape while also fostering a deep appreciation for the humanities and the importance of interdisciplinary thinking.

In conclusion, my time in the Presidential Honors Program at Tarleton State University has been instrumental in shaping me into a well-rounded individual ready to make meaningful contributions to society. I am grateful for the opportunities it has provided me and confident in the skills it has instilled in me as I embark on the next chapter of my academic and professional journey.

VAB picture

Jayce K. Thedford

Screenshot 2024 03 06 113245 1
Screenshot 2024 03 06 113452 1

Credit to Dr. Landeata, Dean of the Mayfield College of Engineering for the photos and content.

Presidential Honors students Paige Davis and Jayce K. Thedford went to Lockheed Martin’s 2024 Ethics in Engineering competition. They placed in the 16 out of 74 university teams (top 3 out of the 7 Texas university teams). This is just one example of the doors that Presidential Honors can open for you. This program is constantly giving students the opportunity to challenge themselves and make their mark in the professional world before even leaving college.

Do You Want to Know More about Presidential Honors or the Honors College?

Keep up with the Honors College on social media!

Learn more at tarleton.edu/honors/