Honors College

Joseph F. Wysocki, Ph.D., Dean

Drawing guidance from John Paul II’s encyclical on Faith and Reason, the Honors College of Belmont Abbey College is a four-year educational program designed to benefit students who have demonstrated intellectual excellence and seriousness of mind in the pursuit of truth. The principal aim of this program is exploration of issues and questions of permanent importance through study and discussion of some of the greatest texts of the ancients, Christians, and moderns.

Lectures, in-class discussions, and writing assignments emphasize and encourage depth of thought and clarity of expression. In pursuit of these aims, students collaborate rather than compete. The ultimate objective of study and discussion is not victory over another or individual dominance. Rather, it is mutual assistance so that the best in each student is brought forth and true understanding can emerge as fully as possible.

Students are encouraged to listen to authors, teachers, and each other with what the Rule of St. Benedict calls “the ear of your heart.” In addition to the study of great texts, the enrichment of writing skills and a genuinely collegial experience, the Honors College also features many curricular and extra-curricular opportunities: