Empowering the next generation of thinkers and doers for our state and beyond.
The Honors College at Marshall University empowers students to meet the evolving needs of West Virginia by combining rigorous academics with hands-on, real-world learning experiences. Our programs are designed to equip students with the critical thinking, leadership, and durable skills necessary to excel in high-demand fields such as healthcare, technology, education, and advanced manufacturing. Through strategic partnerships with local industries, government agencies, and community organizations, Honors students engage in internships, research, and service projects that address real challenges facing our state. These experiences prepare graduates to make immediate and lasting contributions to West Virginia’s economy, civic life, and communities.
By fostering innovative, integrative learning, the Honors College builds a foundation for students to solve complex problems, lead with integrity, and thrive in dynamic career environments. We are committed to measurable outcomes, ensuring our programs support retention, graduation, and employment rates while aligning with the state’s economic and workforce priorities. At its core, the Honors College demonstrates that education is not just a pathway to jobs but a catalyst for leadership and transformation. Together, we are developing graduates who will strengthen West Virginia’s prosperity, resilience, and future potential.
Aligned Partner Initiatives
Design for Defense (HON 481) challenges students to solve real-world defense problems in collaboration with the National Strategic Innovation Network. This course fosters innovative thinking, teamwork, and practical problem-solving, connecting students with professionals tackling complex security challenges. Participants gain invaluable experience addressing issues critical to national and global security.
Learn more about how Honors students are designing solutions for the future. Discover Design for Defense.
The Honors Incubator Pathway is where creativity meets practical problem-solving. This experiential learning initiative guides a small number of select honors students to identify meaningful challenges, apply design thinking, and develop innovative solutions. Through mentorship and collaboration, participants gain entrepreneurial skills that prepare them to make a tangible impact in West Virginia and beyond. From sustainability projects to community-driven innovations, the Honors Incubator fosters the kind of forward-thinking leadership that defines the Honors College. It’s a space where ideas come to life, building a brighter future for our state.
Learn more about how the Honors College is empowering students through experiential learning. Discover the Incubator.
The Honors College’s partnership with Dundalk Institute of Technology offers students the opportunity to explore Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. This immersive program blends academic learning with real-world experiences, fostering a global perspective and cross-cultural understanding. Students engage with Ireland’s ancient landscapes and modern culture, gaining insights that prepare them for leadership in a connected world.
Learn more about how Honors students are broadening their horizons through study abroad. Discover Ireland Study Abroad.
The TEDxMarshallU Honors Internship (HON 490) equips students with the skills to organize and execute a TEDx event, from concept to stage. Over two semesters, participants develop expertise in event planning, marketing, and production while working collaboratively to present innovative ideas to the community. This hands-on experience empowers students to lead and inspire through storytelling and design.
Learn more about how Honors students bring big ideas to life. Discover TEDxMarshallU.
Key Outcomes and Highlights
Retention and Graduation Rates
- Honors students graduate at rates 20% higher than their peers, nationally, and more than twice as high at Marshall Univeristy.
- Marshall honors students demonstrate strong retention and completion rates, far outpacing institutional averages.
Workforce Contributions
- Honors alumni pursue impactful careers in key West Virginia sectors like healthcare, education, technology, and advanced manufacturing.
- Many remain in the state after graduation, contributing to local economies and communities.
Experiential Learning
- Honors students participate in an array of experiential learning opportunities in and through the Honors College including internships, research projects, and community engagement.
- Our key partnerships such as the Department of Defense, focusing on cybersecurity and innovation, and the TED organization, that joins us in believing that powerful ideas, powerfully presented, move us to feel something, to think differently, to take action.
How We Align with West Virginia’s Priorities
Workforce Readiness: Honors students receive rigorous, hands-on preparation in fields critical to West Virginia’s future, including healthcare, engineering, technology, and education. In tandem with their major programs, experience in the Honors College emphasize adaptable, career-ready skills—critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving—ensuring our graduates can contribute meaningfully in any professional setting.
Economic & Community Impact: Through partnerships with state agencies, businesses, and community organizations, the Honors College fosters pathways for students to engage with West Virginia’s workforce needs. Many of our students and alumni actively contribute to the state’s economic growth through research, innovation, public service, and entrepreneurship.
Developing Future Leaders: The Honors College cultivates leaders with the skills and perspective to address the challenges of tomorrow. Whether in business, government, healthcare, or education, our graduates are equipped to make a lasting impact in their communities—both in West Virginia and beyond.
The Honors College Difference
Student Stories
Erin Roberts, International Business Major
“Driving Sustainability on a Global Stage”
Erin represented Marshall University at an international competition focused on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Collaborating with a diverse team, she developed a detailed action plan for a sustainable corporation, earning second place among 17 teams. Erin credits the creative problem-solving skills she honed in the Honors College for her success and plans to apply them as she pursues law school.
Gabriella Sevilla, Video Production Major
“Creating Stories that Inspire Change”
Gabriella gained hands-on experience as an intern for TEDxMarshallU, directing the live stream and producing professional-quality videos of the event’s talks. Her contributions demonstrated exceptional technical skills and creativity, propelling her toward a role with HerdVision. Gabriella’s work exemplifies the Honors College’s emphasis on experiential learning and professional growth.
Kacey Poe, Biological Sciences Major
“Building a Path to Pediatric Medicine”
Kacey’s acceptance into the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine’s Early Assurance program ensures her pathway to medical school without the need for the MCAT. As a Resident Advisor in the Honors House, she has also fostered a supportive environment for her peers. Kacey’s dedication to both academic excellence and community building reflects the Honors College’s mission to nurture leaders.
Josh Maddy, Computer Science Major
“Mapping Personal Narratives Through Innovation”
Josh demonstrated extraordinary creativity and technical ability in his honors work, producing sophisticated animation for a personal mapping project. He seamlessly integrated anamorphic text, QR codes, and advanced software tools to tell a deeply personal story. Beyond his own success, Josh lent his expertise to help a peer overcome technical challenges, embodying the collaborative spirit that is central to the Honors community at Marshall.
Darby McGinnis, Biological Sciences Major
“Bringing Entrepreneurship to Life”
Darby developed a mobile florist business concept in her Honors seminar on sustainability strategies. Her thorough market research and collaboration with a design firm resulted in a 3D rendering of her idea, showcasing its feasibility and sustainability. Darby’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking embody the Honors College’s commitment to actionable learning.
Madeline Watts, Biological Sciences Major
“Studying Chemistry and Art in Italy”
Madeline’s study abroad experience combined her love for science and art, exploring the chemistry of art restoration in Italy. Supported by the Honors Council Grant, she gained a global perspective and applied her learning to broader contexts. Madeline’s experience highlights the transformative opportunities the Honors College provides its students.
