Welcome to the Honors College at Marshall University.
Whether you are a prospective student, a parent, a current member of our community, or a future partner in our mission, we’re glad you’re here.
At the Honors College, we believe that education is more than a path to achievement—it’s a foundation for leadership, a catalyst for meaningful service, and a commitment to building a stronger future for our communities. Honors students at Marshall are not just high-achieving scholars—they are curious thinkers, ethical leaders, and engaged citizens. They come from across disciplines and backgrounds, united by a desire to do more with their education and make a real impact in the world around them.
Our curriculum blends academic excellence with hands-on, real-world learning. Students explore ideas across fields, participate in collaborative problem-solving, and engage directly with their communities through research, internships, and service projects. In doing so, they develop the kind of adaptable, career-ready skills—critical thinking, communication, ethical reasoning—that today’s world demands.
We are proud to partner with local organizations, global institutions, and industry innovators to expand our students’ access to opportunity. Through initiatives such as study abroad programs, design challenges with the Department of Defense, and internships that support civic engagement and public storytelling, our students are empowered to apply what they learn in ways that are both practical and transformative.
The Honors College has grown significantly since its founding, and today, we serve more than 500 students across a wide range of majors. Our incoming cohorts are the most accomplished in our history, and we continue to explore and invest in new support structures—including increased scholarships, micro-credentialing opportunities, and enhanced co-curricular programs—to meet their needs.
We are also proud to support Marshall’s broader vision for educational access, affordability, and career readiness. Our mission is not just to foster personal excellence, but to ensure that every honors student has the opportunity to graduate with a rich, debt-minimized, and purpose-driven education.
As Dean, I see this work as a shared endeavor. I invite you to explore our programs, learn more about our community, and imagine how you might be part of this ongoing story—because honors isn’t just a place or a set of courses. It’s a way of thinking, living, and leading that stays with our students long after graduation.
At your service,
Brian A. Hoey, Ph.D.
Dean, The Honors College at Marshall University
