Frequently Asked Questions

 

How many classes should I take each semester?

Most courses are worth three credits, but be sure to check for each of your courses. You must be a full-time student to live in campus housing and get full financial aid, which means taking at least 12 credits per semester (typically four classes).  Most students take at least 15 credits per semester and some take 17 or more. One idea is to check the UNT Catalog or the number of hours required to graduate with your major (or a typical one, if you do not have a major yet) and divide that number by four. That is the number of credits you will need to earn each year to graduate in four years.  

How many hours per week can I work at a job of some kind and still be a successful student? 

A study from the American Council on Education indicates that students who work from 1-15 hours per week are less likely to drop out of college than those who work 15 or more hours or not at all. 

How much studying will it take to do well in my college classes? 

Each person is different, of course, but the rule of thumb is that you should study two to three hours for each hour you spend in class. Some classes will demand more time, others less. One helpful hint: try not to get behind in a class, as it may be impossible to catch up later. 

How many Honors courses can I take during one semester? 

You may take as many or as few as you like, provided you successfully complete at least one Honors course each academic year (two for many scholarship holders).  

Are Honors classes more difficult than regular classes? 

Honors classes are different rather than just more difficult. They are intended to provide an intellectual challenge while offering opportunities for you to be actively involved in your learning. Many students find Honors courses more enjoyable than others because the small class size allows for an in-depth discussion of the course material and special projects. However, some subjects are more difficult than others and students differ in talents and interests, so it is hard to generalize. 

What type of tests should I expect in Honors classes? 

Tests in Honors classes tend to demand that you know facts, of course, but also that you understand ideas and concepts. Most professors require essays as part of their tests, but subjects and professors differ, so be sure you are clear on what the professors in your particular classes want you to know. 

Will I have a better GPA if I avoid Honors classes? 

Honors students typically excel in their classes, or they would not be part of the program. Honors classes provide a challenging but supportive atmosphere, so most Honors students continue to maintain high grades. The creative structure and engaging nature of Honors classes generally motivate students to do well. 

Where can I find the most accurate listing of available Honors classes? 

The Registrar's website list Honors classes each semester and the Honors College posts a listing at honors.unt.edu.

Will my 3000 and 4000 level Honors classes count toward my major? 

Whether these classes count toward your major has to do with each department’s major requirements. Some of our 3000 and 4000 level classes are in a specific discipline; others, such as Honors 4100, are colloquia and may count only toward a major with agreement from the department.

When should I make my choice about which Honors College award to work toward? 

You should meet with the academic counselor during your first semester in the Honors College and devise a plan. You can change the award level you are seeking at any time. 

What is a four-year plan? 

It is a plan to graduate in four years, with the major of your choice as well as the Honors College Award you want to earn. We urge our students to apply themselves, make good choices about the courses they take and graduate in a timely manner. The Honors College Academic Counselors will show each student the various Honors options and work out a plan for the classes the student has left to take to fulfill the Honors option that the student desires. Students are required to make and attend an advising appointment with the Honors College Academic Counselors during their first semester in Honors. 

Do I have to take HNRS 1500 as a prerequisite for the more advanced Honors Research classes? 

No, but it is highly recommended. HNRS 1500 sets the stage for the thesis proposal and thesis writing courses. Students who take HNRS 1500 are typically more prepared than others to undertake their thesis work.

Can I get credit for a thesis and a thesis replacement? 

No, Honors credit is given for one or the other, but not both. 

Is Honors open to graduate students or students working on their second baccalaureate (post-baccalaureate)? 

No, Honors is a program for undergraduates only. 

What happens if my semester and/or cumulative Grade Point Average drops below 3.00? 

Should your GPA fall to between 2.00 and 3.00, you will go on probation for the upcoming semester. During that time, you will still be eligible for all the benefits of Honors membership while you work to bring your GPA up. If your GPA remains between 2.00 and 3.00 for two semesters, your Honors College membership will become inactive and you cannot enjoy any of the benefits of Honors College membership. You can return to active membership by raising your GPA to 3.00 or higher. 

If your GPA falls below 2.00, you are immediately placed on inactive status and may be dropped from Honors College membership.  

If I remain active in the Honors College throughout my undergraduate career but do not achieve an award, will my active stats be noted on my transcript?

No, active status will not be noted on one's transcript, only the specific honors distinction or award will be noted, if achieved.  However, honors-specific courses will be included on your transcript along with other courses and active members are still eligible for membership benefits.