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Southwest Honors College

Build your academic resume with Honors College

What is Honors College?

The Honors College program is designed to challenge academically, well-prepared students and provide opportunities for academic excellence, in-depth subject exploration, research, service/leadership enhancement, and experiential learning on a local, national and global level.

As an Honors College student, you gain experiences that will help build your academic resume suitable for transfer to elite institutions, improve skills valuable to success in careers, and connect with like-minded students.

Learning Benefits

Students who participate in the Honors College at Southwest will be afforded unique academic opportunities among a cohort of peers.

Honors students:

  • have a designated lounge with computers, printers, study area and coffee corner to enrich their education experience.
  • are eligible for scholarships which are awarded after final selection of the cohort.
  • have study-abroad opportunities with SWCC faculty.
  • have access to transfer agreements with 4-year honors college institutions.
  • first year students are in a cohort model to enhance learning and academic support.

CHOOSE YOUR PATH

We offer two concentrations for students majoring in either general studies or advanced manufacturing.

Complete 12 credit hours in your chosen program as Honors Courses, which require accelerated assignments.

The application closes on June 13, 2025.

After the first semester honors class, begin an accelerated pathway focused on work-based learning. Internships also provide more on-the-job training.

If you are interested in the Advanced Manufacturing (CTE) option use the Learn More/APPLY link below.

Selection Criteria & Application

To be eligible for the Honors College at Southwest Virginia Community College a student must demonstrate a:

  • high school GPA of 3.5 or greater*
  • high school faculty recommendation
  • recommendation from the Honors Committee at SWCC following an interview.

* Students who have a below a 3.5 GPA are welcome to apply. A letter will be required explaining any extenuating circumstances that impacted the GPA.

Honors College News

November 19th | 2025

A group of distinguished Southwest Virginica Community College honors students recently traveled to the nation’s capital for an unforgettable experience: participating in the solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of

April 15th | 2025

Over spring break, a group of ambitious Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) students, faculty, staff and community members ventured halfway around the world to explore the rich culture and history

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