About the Program
The goal of the honors program is to develop the next generation of nursing scholars. The honors program features seminars and independent study experiences that promote scholarship, intellectual and personal development, and challenge student to grow and excel to the fullest potential. Students will explore research based on individual interests, needs and goals.
Why apply?
University of Colorado College of Nursing honors students receive:
- Individualized mentorship in scholarly inquiry
- A chance to apply critical thinking skills to the development of a testable research hypothesis
- An opportunity to develop and refine writing and speaking skills
- Preferential consideration for admission to the nursing PhD program.
Participation in the honors program includes many advantages for students, future employers, and society. Students enjoy close interaction with distinguished faculty, thought-provoking seminars and independent study.
What does the program involve ?
Students in the program take six additional credits of electives, above and beyond the traditional baccalaureate requirements. These credits focus on research and scholarship and include: 1) Four 1 credit honors seminar courses, two taken in the junior year and two in the senior year; 2) Independent study in research for 2 credits during the senior year under the guidance of the student’s research faculty mentor; and 3) a scholarly thesis and a poster.
Who is eligible?
Pre-licensure students in the traditional College of Nursing pathway of progression who have achieved a minimum of 3.7 cumulative grade point average (GPA) in previous college course work or prerequisite courses for admission to the BS program. Additionally, applicants with an interest, or experience in research are invited to apply to the honors program in the College of Nursing.
When and how do I apply?
Forms and instructions can be downloaded from the college website. Applications for the program are due January 31. Interviews will take place in February and March.
How are applicants selected?
Students meeting the criteria, who apply by the application deadline and provide all application materials, will be considered for selection.
A committee will select students based on the following:
- Acceptance into the nursing major and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.7 on 4.0 scale for all previous college course work or prerequisite courses for admission to the BS program.
- 1-page resume or curriculum vitae.
- Honors program questionnaire.
- Two letters of reference from former faculty and/or research supervisor.
- Submission of an essay describing: interest in the honors program and research, what you bring to the honors program, how you expect to benefit by participation in the program, and how participation might influence your career trajectory.
- In-person interview.
Who should I contact for additional information ?
Additional information and application forms are available on the website: www.nursing.ucdenver.edu/BS. You may also contact the Honors Program Coordinator Ellyn Matthews, PhD, RN, AOCN, (office) 303-724-8552 or ellyn.matthews@ucdenver.edu.
Note: Tuition for additional credits is the student’s responsibility; however, funds may be available to cover part of the extra cost.