Eryn Cohen, Ellen Lynn and Julia Diamond, honors graduates from the Class of 2025, celebrate at the 2025 University of Delaware Commencement at Delaware Stadium.

UD Honors College ranked No. 11 nationally

Article by Andre L. Smith Photos by Kathy F. Atkinson March 31, 2026

College recognized for commitment to excellence in mentorship, engagement and opportunities

The University of Delaware Honors College has been ranked No. 11 among the nation’s best honors colleges, according to a national ranking released by College Transitions, a higher education research and advising organization that evaluates honors programs across the country.

The ranking places UD’s Honors College among a select group of programs recognized for academic rigor, faculty mentorship, student engagement and undergraduate research opportunities within large public universities.

“The recognition that this ranking confers reflects the high quality of the UD Honors College — the engaged and committed students, the dedicated faculty who teach and mentor in the program and the caring staff who foster an incredible community that lasts well beyond commencement,” President Laura Carlson said.

Interim Provost William Farquhar said the Honors College is increasingly attractive to students seeking a more challenging academic experience, helping to raise the profile of the entire University. Applications to the Honors College are up about 23% over the past two years.

“Interest from prospective honors students continues to grow because they know they’ll be encouraged every day to reach their full potential both inside and outside the classroom,” Farquhar said.

College Transitions evaluates honors colleges using criteria that include curriculum design, experiential learning, faculty involvement, residential community, selectivity and post-graduate outcomes.

The UD Honors College integrates the resources of a major research university with the structure of a smaller academic community. Students enroll in discussion-based seminars capped at small numbers, work closely with faculty mentors and pursue research, creative scholarship and interdisciplinary coursework beginning as early undergraduates.

Honors student Grace Aitken presents her research to Honors College dean Michael Chajes during the Summer Scholars symposium.

“This recognition affirms the strength of our students, faculty and staff, who have built a dynamic academic community centered on intellectual curiosity, collaboration and mentorship,” said Michael Chajes, Honors College dean and interim vice provost for undergraduate education. “Being recognized among the nation’s leading honors colleges speaks to the transformative experiences our students have and the commitment our faculty bring to undergraduate education.”

Honors students come from every college at UD, with many participating in undergraduate research and engaging in global learning experiences. The program emphasizes communication, analytical thinking and leadership development alongside disciplinary depth. The Honors College also provides a residential community that connects students through shared coursework, advising and programming. Faculty-guided projects, fellowship preparation and individualized academic planning are central components of the Honors experience.

Graduates of the program pursue competitive fellowships, graduate and professional study, and careers across industries including science, public policy, business, education and health care.

The national ranking reflects continued growth in Honors enrollment, expanded academic programming and sustained investment in faculty-led initiatives that connect classroom learning with research and real-world application.

About the University of Delaware Honors College

The University of Delaware Honors College provides academically ambitious undergraduate students with enriched educational experiences through interdisciplinary coursework, faculty mentorship, research opportunities and leadership development. The Honors College supports students across most majors and prepares graduates for advanced study, professional success and civic engagement.