Honors

To determine the level at which senior honors candidates may graduate, they are each assigned a numerical score made up of grades in concentration courses, general exams and thesis. Each is weighted approximately as follows: courses = 50%, thesis = 40% and general exams = 10%.  In making its recommendations to the Faculty, the Standing Committee on Special Concentrations also takes into account the student's entire record (other grades, tutorial reports, substantive comments by thesis readers, and comments by the Faculty Adviser).

To qualify for highest honors, the thesis must have at least one summa level reading and one magna reading. To qualify for high honors, the thesis must have at least one magna level reading. To qualify for honors, the thesis must have at least one cum level reading.

At the beginning of their final semester, concentrators receive the last update of the courses they have listed as counting for concentration credit. If they have recorded more than sixteen, they should consult with their Faculty Adviser and with the Director of Studies to determine which courses will be taken into account for Honors calculations. Concentrators should be aware that courses in progress during this final semester will not enter into the Committee's honors recommendation, as final grades will not be available by the time honors are voted.