Stony Brook University’s Honors College, WISE Honors, and University Scholars programs offer immersive learning experiences that extend far beyond the classroom, helping students develop critical skills, form strong communities, and prepare for impactful careers.

• Honors College: In the Honors College, students participate in small, interdisciplinary seminars that sharpen their analytical, reasoning, and communication skills. These unique courses encourage students to explore new perspectives, think critically, and apply their knowledge creatively across various fields. By engaging in this close-knit, supportive community, Honors College students emerge as insightful, versatile thinkers prepared to tackle complex, global challenges.

• WISE Honors: The Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Honors Program immerses students in a wide range of STEM disciplines, blending academic study with hands-on career exploration. Through research rotations, service-learning projects, and leadership development opportunities, WISE Honors students gain practical skills and build valuable networks within the STEM community, positioning them for meaningful, impactful roles in science and engineering.

• University Scholars: University Scholars begin their college journey in small, interactive classes that foster connections with both peers and faculty. These foundational courses, exclusively open to Honors students and averaging just twenty students per class, create a collaborative learning environment that supports academic success and builds a sense of belonging from day one. The University Scholars curriculum is centered around our core pillars: Leadership, Service, and Academic Excellence. Through these guiding principles, students are encouraged to grow as leaders, give back to their communities, and strive for academic distinction.

Each of these programs provides Honors students at Stony Brook with unparalleled opportunities for growth, connection, and discovery, setting a strong foundation for both their personal and professional futures.

Honors students at Stony Brook University build enriching, intellectually stimulating relationships with faculty members who are leaders in their fields. These connections provide invaluable mentorship and open doors to advanced academic and research opportunities.

• Honors College and WISE Honors: Honors and WISE students have the unique opportunity to work on a senior thesis or research project, guided by a faculty mentor of their choice. This experience allows students to dive deeply into a topic they’re passionate about, gaining both expertise and valuable research skills.

• University Scholars Fellows: Select University Scholars are chosen in the fall of their freshman year to serve as Fellows, mentors, and Teaching Assistants for the SCH 101 courses. These Fellows play a vital role in the program, supporting new students as they begin their academic journey.

• Honors College Big Siblings Program: Each year, a select group of Honors College students apply to become Big Siblings for incoming freshmen. Big Siblings are matched with a few first-year students, whom they meet during New Seawolf Welcome Week. Throughout the academic year, Big Siblings offer guidance, friendship, and support to help their "Little Siblings" navigate college life and feel at home in the Honors College community.

• WISE Honors Mentoring Groups: To support your transition during freshman year, WISE Honors students join a small mentoring group of five to six first-year students. Led by an advanced undergraduate mentor, these groups provide guidance on math and science requirements, as well as a space for academic and scholarly growth. This mentoring group becomes a vital source of support and connection as you adjust to the demands of STEM coursework.

These programs foster a supportive community, academic excellence, and valuable mentorship, helping Honors students make the most of their time at Stony Brook University.

Honors program students at Stony Brook University benefit from personalized advising provided by advisors who exclusively work with Honors students. These dedicated advisors offer tailored guidance to help students navigate their academic journey and plan for meaningful careers. With individualized attention, students explore a wide range of opportunities, including research projects, internships, and extracurricular activities, all designed to enhance their academic and professional growth. Our advisors ensure that every Honors student has the support they need to make informed decisions, pursue their passions, and achieve their goals with confidence.

Stony Brook University is a premier research institution that offers exceptional opportunities for Honors students to engage in research at the highest levels. As an Honors student, you'll have unique access to hands-on research experiences across a wide range of fields, from the sciences to the humanities. Here are some of the key research pathways available to you:

• Research Participation
  
  Honors students can dive into exciting research projects across diverse fields, working alongside archaeologists, ecologists, primatologists, and more. These experiences bring classroom knowledge to life, fostering real-world skills and insights.

• Faculty Mentorship
  
  Pursue a research project or senior thesis under the guidance of a faculty mentor in your area of interest. This invaluable mentorship allows you to gain personalized support and develop a deep understanding of your field.

• Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URECA) Program
  
  URECA combines research and undergraduate education, providing funding, resources, and guidance to help you bring your ideas to fruition. It’s an ideal program for those passionate about discovery and innovation.

• Scholars for Dental Medicine (SFDM) Program
  
  Honors students interested in dentistry can join the SFDM Program, a prestigious combined Bachelor’s/DDS track that integrates undergraduate and professional studies, preparing you for a successful career in dental medicine.

• Pre-College WISE Program
  
  For those interested in STEM outreach, the Pre-College WISE Program allows Honors students to work with middle and high school students in hands-on STEM research, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.

• Summer Research Programs
  
  Stony Brook offers several renowned summer research experiences, including REU: Chemistry, REU: Data + Computing = Discovery, and REU: Nanotechnology for Health, Energy, and the Environment. These programs provide an immersive opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research with faculty and peers.

As an Honors Program student, you may qualify for valuable merit-based scholarships that can help reduce the cost of your education. These awards recognize your hard work, dedication, and academic excellence, making your investment in a Stony Brook education even more affordable.

To explore the specific scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to Honors students, be sure to connect with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. They can provide personalized guidance to help you make the most of these financial resources.

Honors Program students at Stony Brook benefit from an exclusive experience designed to foster both academic and personal growth. With priority course registration, they can tailor their schedules to align closely with their goals and interests.

Honors students also have the option to live together in designated residence halls, cultivating a supportive, close-knit community of like-minded peers. This environment encourages strong friendships, academic collaboration, and a sense of belonging from day one.

For more details on housing options available to first-year students, visit the First-Year Student Housing page. Here, you can explore the variety of residence halls and amenities that await you at Stony Brook.

As an Honors program student at Stony Brook University, you’ll have exclusive access to a wide range of enriching experiences, both on campus and beyond. Enjoy field trips to world-renowned museums, Broadway shows, and other iconic destinations, offering you the chance to immerse yourself in culture, art, and history. Attend captivating musical performances, thought-provoking guest lectures, and networking sessions with alumni to build connections and expand your professional opportunities.

Engage in community service initiatives, gain research guidance from faculty mentors, and participate in career-building events designed specifically for Honors students. Whether you’re discovering one of the hundreds of academic and extracurricular programs offered on campus or exploring the vibrant cultural scene of New York City just a train ride away, the opportunities are endless.

With the Long Island Rail Road station right on campus, New York City’s cultural gems, professional networks, and career opportunities are within easy reach. As an Honors student, your time at Stony Brook will be filled with dynamic learning experiences that will help you grow academically, professionally, and personally.

Students enrolled in the University Honors Programs have exclusive access to reserved lounges and study spaces within the designated Honors Program wing in the Academic Engagement Suite in the Student Union. These quiet, comfortable areas offer an ideal setting for focused study, collaboration, and relaxation. Additionally, the Honors Program features a dedicated seminar room within the wing, where small, interactive classes are held, fostering an engaging and personalized learning experience. These specialized spaces are designed to support academic success while strengthening the sense of community among Honors students.

As an Honors program student at Stony Brook University, you’ll have exclusive access to a wide range of enriching experiences, both on campus and beyond. Enjoy field trips to world-renowned museums, Broadway shows, and other iconic destinations, offering you the chance to immerse yourself in culture, art, and history. Attend captivating musical performances, thought-provoking guest lectures, and networking sessions with alumni to build connections and expand your professional opportunities.

Engage in community service initiatives, gain research guidance from faculty mentors, and participate in career-building events designed specifically for Honors students. Whether you’re discovering one of the hundreds of academic and extracurricular programs offered on campus or exploring the vibrant cultural scene of New York City just a train ride away, the opportunities are endless.

With the Long Island Rail Road station right on campus, New York City’s cultural gems, professional networks, and career opportunities are within easy reach. As an Honors student, your time at Stony Brook will be filled with dynamic learning experiences that will help you grow academically, professionally, and personally.

Registration Support Assistants (RSAs) play a vital role in helping incoming first-year students in the University Honors Programs (Honors College, University Scholars, and WISE) at Stony Brook University smoothly transition into their academic journey. RSAs assist students with onboarding and pre-registration, ensuring they are well-prepared for their first semester. In addition, they provide guidance during Registration Workshops throughout the summer, helping students navigate the SBC course enrollment process and finalize their Fall class schedules. By offering personalized support, RSAs ensure that every student has the tools and resources needed to start their college experience confidently.  

To apply for this program or learn more, please click the link for further details.