The Honors Program offers an opportunity for students to take their Liberal Studies coursework in an accelerated and more academically challenging environment.

The program accepts 15-17 students based on an application and writing sample. Honors students are encouraged to take Honors English, Art History and Cultural Studies.

What will you take and how does it compare?

Honors English and Art History courses go hand in hand!

They are intended to function together throughout the year so it is beneficial for students to take both.

You will explore issues such as canonical and anti-conical works in literary and visual cultures, the status of the author/creator and attendant notions of innovation and originality, and the relationship of art and design in popular culture.

The course will ask students to examine what they consider art and literature to be and to examine the consequences of their positions.

Cultural Studies too!

This course covers the required material for the mainstream course but provides an opportunity for expanded field work and more engaging reading and writing assignments. You also install a culturally relevant project that involves the Otis community.

Three courses combine!

All three Honors courses include lecture but stress discussion, debate, and individual presentations. Additionally, the writing assignments reflect the superior abilities of Honors students to think and write critically and independently.

Students who opt for the Honors track enter all majors, but as a group they share some common characteristics:

You are critical thinkers who enjoy reading, writing and vigorous discussion. You are self-motivated, willing to engage in some outside research, and have the self-confidence to take a stand on intellectual issues.

If you enjoy challenging classes with lively debate, and are looking for an opportunity to continue that experience, then you should consider applying for the Honors Program!

Successful completion of the Honors Program will be noted on your transcript and will be advantageous for those of you who are looking ahead to graduate school. Otis Honors students have been very successful in both studio and Liberal Studies work and have distinguished themselves as graduates of the College.

contact us at las@otis.edu or (310) 665-6920