Honors Academics

“To me, the FCLC Honors Program represents something more than a scholarly program. It represents a journey, a journey that has challenged me just as much as it has inspired me to reach my fullest potential and unlock the door to knowledge, creativity, and innovation. Why this journey has been particularly meaningful to me is because I, having struggled with severe imposter syndrome, nearly dropped out of the Program during my freshman year. Looking back, my ultimate decision to remain in the Program was, more than anything, a decision to embark on a path that not only stripped away my unfounded self-doubts and lack of confidence, but also cultivated my exceptional, multidisciplinary expertise and fervent passion for lifelong learning” –– Alex Rivera ’24

Honors Program Requirements

Course descriptions can be found here.

During the first year Honors students take four honors seminars (two each semester) in philosophy, English, theology, and history. In addition, students take a full year interdisciplinary natural science and math class and workshops in writing and public speaking. Honors students also take a year of a modern or classical language at the intermediate level or higher. (If a student starts a new language in the first year, four semesters will be required.) 

In the sophomore year Honors students have more choice in their schedule. Each semester they take two interrelated Honors courses that use the resources of New York City. The other six courses taken in sophomore year are chosen by the student in consultation with the student's advisor and/or the Honors Program Director.

In the junior year, the student's primary focus is on the major course of study. The one Honors requirement during the junior year is to undertake an individualized study experience that will enrich your education, and then to write a reflection on the experience. Examples of the experience include:

• studying abroad in a Fordham or Fordham-approved program 
• a tutorial or research project designed by the student and one or more faculty
• an internship or assistantship (e.g., work with an artist, writer, or scientist, with directed academic readings) 
• a community service/mission-related project

In the senior year, Honors students participate with their peers in a senior thesis workshop, working on a thesis or equivalent capstone project in their chosen major. Students present their theses or capstone projects at a ceremony in the spring. During that same final semester, all Honors students come together for one last seminar, Honors Senior Values. By tradition, this course is taught by the first-year English professor, bringing together students and a professor from the very first semester and creating a "full circle" experience.

Learn about Our Unique Honors Classes