Prospective Students
The Honors Program takes the Clarkson undergraduate experience to a whole new level. Clarkson is famous for our hands-on, problem-based curriculum, but Honors gives you even more opportunities to conduct independent original research and work in teams on problems of immense social importance. Admission to Honors is highly competitive, but our "community within a community" is supportive, collaborative and serious about having fun.
The Honors Advantage
If you’re a highly motivated student who wants to work closely with a faculty mentor, conduct graduate-level research, and live with and learn from some of the most remarkable students at Clarkson, the Honors Program is for you.
Honors Program at Clarkson University is seeking talented and motivated students who are prepared to tackle its challenging four-year curriculum centered on current and emerging problems in science, technology, and society.
Honors students take specifically designed courses that require team-based approaches to solving real-world problems. They engage in critical thinking and problem-solving, and have excellent communication skills. For their honors thesis they complete an original piece of research under the mentorship of a faculty member. Honors graduates typically go on to prestigious graduate and professional schools or take up fast track jobs in industry.
The Clarkson University Honors Program is looking for students who:
- defy convention
- display intellectual curiosity
- possess motivation and take initiative
- handle risk and uncertainty
- have a good work ethic
- dedicate themselves in leadership and service
The Program enrolls about 30 students from high school to the first year class and an additional 10 Clarkson university and transfer students into the sophomore class. Admission is highly selective: applicants much have first semester GPA of at least 3.5 and demonstrate outstanding achievement in academcis, leadership and service.
Beyond your performance in high school or college, the Honors Program is looking for motivated and curious learners, hard workers with a talent for answering tough questions with creativity and a collaborative spirit. If you think you’re ready for this unique challenge, we strongly encourage you to apply.
How to Apply
For all students, admission to the Honors Program requires an application form, a personal essay, and one or more letters of recommendation. Applications will be reviewed and a select group of candidates will be offered an interview. Learn more about program eligibility and our four-year curriculum, including an original honors thesis.
There are several different ways to apply to the Honors Program:
First Year students (students not already at Clarkson)
Clarkson students (including The Clarkson School Fast Track)
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the program or the admissions process, don’t hesitate to contact the Honors Program staff.








