Program Qualifications

Who is Eligible?

Greg Quinn and Zack McLean

Students enrolled in any of the College's Transfer Degree Programs, such as Associate in Arts (AA) or Associate in Science (AS), can apply for admission to the Honors Program * (available in PDF format, 72 KB, 3 pages). In addition, program applicants must write a 300 to 500 word essay on a given topic. The topic or question to be addressed in the essay is found on the application form * (available in PDF format, 72 KB, 3 pages).
Incoming students must meet any two of the following four criteria:
- ACT Composite score of 25 or higher
- High School GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4 point scale
- Be in the top 10% of his/her graduating high school class
- Submit a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher, guidance counselor or Heartland faculty member
Current HCC students must meet both of the following criteria:
- A cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher in college courses completed
- Successful completion of at least 12 credit hours in college-level coursework

Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission into the Honors Program. The Honors Program office reserves the right to select the most qualified candidates.

How Do I Apply?

To apply, students must submit a Heartland Community College application and an Honors Program application * (available in PDF format, 72 KB, 3 pages), along with an official copy of their high school transcript. Completed materials should be submitted to the Student Success Division Offices, SCB 2300, located on the second floor of the Student Commons Building on the College's Normal campus. Materials can also be submitted to advisors in the Lincoln and Pontiac Centers. Current HCC students applying to the Honors Program do not need to resubmit materials that are already on file with the college.

The Honors Program at Heartland Community College was initiated in fall 2009. The program was designed to meet the needs of highly motivated students who demonstrate a passion for learning and want to take the initiative in their own learning process.

Once accepted and enrolled in the program, students challenge themselves academically while enhancing their intellectual skills in a supportive and enriched learning environment that promotes academic excellence and recognizes outstanding performance. Students participate in cultural and social activities that stimulate their interest in community engagement and passion for lifelong learning.

*Note: You must download and install Adobe® Acrobat® Reader™ in order to view and print the application form.