Business Honors Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I join the Business Honors Program?

A: Students are able to join the Business Honors Program during the enrollment period. If you have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.7 (3.5 for those in College Honors) and have completed at least 60 credits you are eligible to join.

Q: What is the benefit of completing an Honors Program? Isn't it more work?

A: Yes, the Business Honors requirements are more rigorous than the regular BA major requirements. But some employers and graduate schools may factor in that you were able to graduate from the Business School "With Distinction" meaning you have a high GPA and you voluntarily chose to pursue a more difficult pathway.

Q: What if my GPA dips down below a 3.5? Am I kicked out of the Business Honors Program?

A: No, the critical quarter is your last one at UW. If your GPA falls below 3.5 during your time in the program, you will not be removed from the program or otherwise impacted. However, if both your Business GPA and cumulative GPA are not at 3.5 at the conclusion your degree, you will not earn the "With Distinction" designation.

Q: I'm feeling a little nervous about this program. Can I drop out of it later?

A: Yes, you may decide at any time to discontinue your participation, but you must let an adviser know this in the Undergraduate Program Office (137 MKZ). Failure to do so may affect or delay your graduation process, because your graduation application would indicate that you still are participating in the Business Honors Program and have not fulfilled all of the requirements.

Q: If I decide not to participate now, can I change my mind later and participate?

A: The typical enrollment period for new and continuing students is June until October. Students who are admitted to the UW Business School for winter quarter may also enter the Business Honors Program at that time. If you do not sign up during standard the enrollment period, you will be required to wait a full year to sign up. Doing so can impact your ability to complete the requirements.

Q: What are the course requirements for Business Honors? Is it going to take me more time to finish both my BA major and BA Honors?

A: In most cases pursuing the Business Honors program will not require a longer timeline to graduate. See the program requirements page for details on specific course requirements. You are encouraged to make an appointment to see Sharmon Kollett to discuss the program.

Q: Why can I not do Ad Hoc the Upper Division Business Core?

A: One of the goals of the Business Honors program is to allow you to research a subject in more depth. Most of the Upper Division Core courses are taught at the introductory level and thus are not appropriate. However, students who wish to focus their Honors work on ethics may be approved to Ad Hoc the MGMT 320 course.

Q: I can't take honors section of MGMT 430 in Winter or Spring, can I still do the Business Honors program?

A: You can still participate in the Business Honors program. You may petition to Ad Hoc a non-honors section of MGMT 430. However, taking the Honors section of MGMT 430 is required in all but rare circumstances. If you think you will be impacted by this, please schedule an appointment to see an adviser.

Q: I'm still confused. Is there someone I can talk to in the Undergraduate Program Office?

A: Feel free to schedule an appointment with Sharmon Kollet, Academic Counselor, by calling (206) 685-3400. You may email Sharmon with quick questions.

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