Engage and grow with Honors.
Honors students graduate from Loras with experience in collaborative research that bridges the insights of academic research with real-world problem-solving.
Many people can talk about what is wrong with the world; our graduates know how to analyze a problem from multiple perspectives, address root causes through community resources, and apply their research in the service of others to make a meaningful impact.
Examples of projects include solar energy, STEM education, veterans and mental health, grant writing and many others.
Experience, Collaboration & Leadership
Unique Features
- Cohort model with other motivated students
- Experiences and collaboration with peers in different majors
- Preparation for Graduate School and Professions
- Scholarship of $1,000 awarded annually (not exceeding four years)
Experiential Opportunities
- Interaction with peers and professors in lively educational environments
- Direct engagement with professionals in various fields through community partnerships and outreach
- Service opportunities on campus, in the community, and internationally
- Research and conference presentation opportunities
Criteria to Qualify
- Apply and be admitted to Loras College
- Submit an application essay (250-500 words)
- Demonstrate high academic achievement (GPA of 3.5 or higher, or transfer GPA of 3.3 or higher)
First-Year Honors
When you enter Honors, you become part of an active learning community that values intellectual curiosity and community engagement. Foundational classes deepen your connections with each other and teach the values of the Honors program.
In the first year, these connections are forged and strengthened through designated Honors sections of Engaging Communities and Engaging Differences.
Collaborative, Interdisciplinary Research Project
Sophomore through senior year focuses on the collaborative, interdisciplinary research project. These interdisciplinary research projects, pursued over a three-year span, address a question or problem in a community to learn about the issue, connect with other interested groups, and develop a possible solution. The students collaborate as a team to best use their talents and inclinations to the fullest potential possible.
Students themselves drive the projects to advance in discovering and applying solutions to problems through community engagement and research. Collaborative research projects have been completed in areas ranging from health education to handicap accessibility to environmental sustainability. Throughout, research teams receive support from faculty and staff, training on cultural competency and community engaged learning, and present their research and results to the campus community.
Get in Touch
Jacob Kohlhaas PhD
Honors Program Director
Contact & Profile