The University, at graduation, grants honors to students whose work in the field of concentration has demonstrated superior quality and culminated in an honors thesis of distinction. One thesis may be used to earn the honors distinction in only one concentration. The designation "Honors" is included on the student's transcript and diploma. No distinctions are made among quality levels of honors work. Students considering honors work should consult their departmental or independent concentration advisor.
Recommendations for honors are due in early May preceding Commencement. Only students who have completed all work before graduation may receive the honors distinction. Brown does not grant honors retroactively. Therefore, students who consider taking a grade of Incomplete in a thesis project should understand that they will not receive honors unless the thesis is completed in time to be evaluated by faculty readers and a recommendation submitted before graduation.
Honors in an Independent Concentration
At the time of filing an independent concentration proposal, a student may request to be a candidate for honors. Honors in an independent concentration may be earned when two faculty members, in addition to the faculty sponsor, recommend the independent concentrator for honors on the basis of the quality of work done in the concentration and the quality of the culminating thesis. Such recommendations should be submitted to the CCC according to the deadlines established by the registrar. An honors thesis results from work done over two semesters.
Page last updated in March, 2000