As part of its ongoing commitment to academic excellence, Rutgers University–New Brunswick offers numerous honors programs that provide outstanding students with challenges beyond those found in regular coursework.

The Honors College of Rutgers University–New Brunswick selects top students from among those admitted to the different schools at Rutgers. It provides a living-learning experience in the first year, and prepares engaged, talented students for the challenges of the 21st century with special curricula and opportunities. With its emphasis on interdisciplinary thinking, hands-on research, and creative problem solving, students will work closely with Rutgers' world-renowned faculty in small classes, workshops, and mentorships.

Many of the undergraduate schools offer specially designed honors programs that involve introductory seminars for well-prepared first-year students. Selection into a school honors program is based on SAT or ACT scores and high school record, and is at the invitation of each school. 

In addition, exceptional upper-class students who are not in school honors programs may be selected to participate in honors seminars offered by the department of their major. Information on school honors programs may be found in the school sections of this catalog; departmental honors programs are described under each major.

Students who participate in honors programs receive a high degree of individual attention from faculty. Seminars, tutorials, lectures, discussions, and independent research afford an opportunity for sophisticated scholarship and growth in self-understanding and also may assist Rutgers students in pursuing their special interests and professional ambitions after graduation.