Hutton Honors College

Contact:
Undergraduate Advisor
Ballantine 749
855-4233
jadgibso@indiana.edu

1. How is your honors degree program administered? Is there a specific person who acts as coordinator? Is there a faculty committee?

The undergraduate advisor is the initial contact for a student interested in the honors program. The undergraduate advisor will connect the student with the faculty member directing the honors thesis course. The student will enroll in a year long honors thesis course. In the context of this course, the students will have contact with the honors thesis director, each other, and other resources on campus.

2. What are the requirements for admission into your honors program? How are students recruited for your program? May students recommend themselves?

Sociology majors with a 3.5 GPA in sociology and a 3.3 cumulative GPA are eligible. Students may recommend themselves.

3. How does a student graduate with honors from your department?

To graduate with honors in sociology, a student must complete the major with a 3.5 GPA in sociology and a 3.3 cumulative GPA, and must complete an honors thesis in the context of a year long honors thesis course. Students earn a total of 9 credits for completing the thesis.

4. What courses do students take as juniors and before in order to prepare for working on the senior project? How are these honors seminars and courses typically conducted? What are the usual requirements in such courses?

Students are encouraged to take methods and statistics during their junior year, and courses related to their desired honors thesis topic. Students must enroll in the year long thesis course during their senior year. They will research and write the thesis in this structured, supportive context.

5. What is the nature of the senior project and what are the requirements for completing it?

It is an empirical research paper based on a research study or a critical analysis of existing research. It can range in length from 20-30 pages and is completed while taking an honors seminar where analysis and writing issues can be discussed with other honors students and a faculty member. An informed presentation of the honors project is one of the requirements of this seminar.

6. Are there departmental resources available to support internships or research projects related to the senior project?

Students have the opportunity to participate in the Sociological Research Practicum. Please contact the undergraduate advisor for more information regarding this opportunity.

7. How might the work required for an honors degree be particularly beneficial in future endeavors?

Students participating in the honors program in sociology will benefit in a number of ways. They will:

• Produce an excellent piece of writing, useful for graduate school admissions in any field
• Secure a detailed letter of recommendation for graduate school from a faculty member who has an opportunity to carefully observe their strengths
• Develop skills and build resume for career in marketing, program development, advocacy, counseling, etc.
• Satisfy curiosity -- students may choose to research any aspect of society
• Discover if graduate school is the right choice
• Get more integrated into the research side of the sociology department
• Practice presentation skills
• Get intensive feedback on writing
• Participate in an intimate seminar