Departmental Distinction

Graduation with Departmental Distinction requires an independent project, and an oral exam on the project in a student’s major during the senior year.  Additional requirements in line with expectations in the discipline (e.g., a separate exam and/or presentation) may be determined at the department/program’s discretion.

This program is open to any student who meets one of the following criteria:

1. The student has attained a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 in the major after the fall semester, junior year, as well as an overall grade point average of 3.00 OR
2. The student does not have the grade point averages specified above but does have the support of his or her major department and has successfully petitioned the Committee on Academic Programs.

A project will involve two semesters of work, for which the student may earn up to two units of independent study credit (course 490). The major department has the option of requiring the student to take specific courses or of modifying existing departmental courses or requirements for students seeking Graduation with Departmental Distinction. Any modifications to the requirements (including additional requirements) must be communicated in writing to the Office of the Provost, where they will be kept on file so as to ensure continuity.

To apply for departmental distinction, students should fill out the form.