New honors program reinforces academic quality

With the introduction this spring semester of an academic honors program, outstanding prospective students have another valuable reason to consider Purdue University Calumet.

An honors program is intended for motivated, high-performing students. Beyond recognizing student achievements, it enhances career prospects by impressing employers.

From a university perspective, an honors program reinforces academic quality. It also attracts ambitious, focused students who are committed to staying the course to graduation and being a positive influence in our society-the very students we desire to attract and northwest Indiana needs.

The Purdue Calumet Honors Program is for freshmen and sophomores. To qualify for admission incoming freshmen must have:

• a high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale,
• ACT composite score of 27 or higher, or
• an SAT combined verbal and math score of at least 1200.

Current students must have a GPA of at least 3.5 and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.3.

Directed by Professor Bipin Pai of our Dept. of Engineering, our honors program will provide such opportunities for an enriched collegiate experience as:

• advanced study and experiential learning through internships, research, special projects, and more;
• summer study abroad;
• academic merit scholarships;
• retreats and field trips;
• undergraduate teaching and research assistantships;
• small class sizes; and
• social and cultural activities.

Also key is a community service component in which participating students will use their talents to assist others. Providing after-school tutoring/mentoring for students in grades 6-12 is one such partnership opportunity we are developing with the Hammond-based Hope Center of Northwest Indiana.

Graduates of our honors program will have their diplomas and transcripts honors program-designated.

This new honors program is yet another way Purdue Calumet is demonstrating its commitment to a high quality education in the Purdue tradition.

Sincerely,

Howard Cohen
Chancellor