A Partnership for Excellence in Honors Education

In the Honors College at Marshall University, we believe in the transformative power of honors education—a partnership that brings together innovative teaching, critical inquiry, and the expertise of faculty across campus. Honors-designated, departmental courses (e.g., ENG200H or BSC120H) are a cornerstone of our required curriculum in the college, offering students opportunities to engage deeply with material in ways that inspire curiosity, foster creativity, and prepare them to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

A Resource for Faculty and Chairs

The guide linked to below is more than a collection of best practices—it’s an invitation to collaborate. Whether you’re a department chair supporting faculty in their teaching of honors-designated courses or a faculty member exploring how to design and deliver a meaningful honors course, this guide offers practical tools, thoughtful insights, and a shared vision for the role of honors education at Marshall University.

In this guide, you’ll find:

  • Clear standards for creating engaging, rigorous honors courses.
  • Resources and opportunities for professional growth and recognition.
  • Guidance on how honors courses align with both departmental goals and the mission of the Honors College.
  • Pathways to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in teaching.

Why This Matters

Honors courses are pivotal in shaping the educational journeys of Marshall University’s most motivated and high-achieving students. Your contributions, whether as a faculty member crafting dynamic learning experiences or as a department chair supporting faculty in this endeavor, leave a lasting impact. These efforts not only enrich the experiences of honors students but also enhance the academic reputation of your department and strengthen the collective success of the Honors College.

Together, we can ensure that honors education reflects the very best of Marshall University—creativity, academic excellence, and collaboration.

Access the Guide

We invite you to download the PDF version of “A Partnership for Excellence in Honors Education” and explore the many ways we can work together to enhance honors courses and support faculty in their professional goals.

Download the Guide