Honors Academics
Implemented in Fall 2013, the new University Honors Program Curriculum consists of a writing-intensive and Ignatian-focused core curriculum, including a First-Year Seminar, a one credit hour Ignatian Colloquium (taken in the first semester), a Social Justice Seminar (taken in the second or third year), and Ethics; Honors seminars in literature, philosophy, religious studies, history, social/behavioral science, natural science, mathematics, and fine arts that replace ICC and at least some ACC requirements; and six honors credits in the major, including at least three credit hours of senior thesis. At least 21 credit hours must be completed with Honors credits, in addition to the six credits in the major (including a minimum of three credits of thesis).
Many Honors students pursued rigorous high school careers and arrive at Loyola with AP credits. Because AP credits are often applied to the introductory common curriculum courses not required of Honors students, these hard-earned credits tend to count as elective credits. For more details, see: AP Credits in the University Honors Program (PDF).
Most Honors courses are small, thematic seminars with an emphasis on writing and discussion. As part of our Jesuit tradition, the courses are value-centered and aim at establishing interdisciplinary connections. In addition to their major advisors, Honors students meet individually for advising with the Director or Coordinator of Student Services each semester. Honors students must maintain a 3.3 cumulative GPA in all of their undergraduate coursework.
Loyola students have the benefit of taking classes at Tulane, Xavier, and Dillard Universties and Notre Dame Seminary as part of the schools' cross-enrollment initiative. Take a look at the Cross-Enrollment Guide below for more information.
For more detailed information: