Honors Program

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) recognizes the academic achievement of college students and provides opportunities for its members to grow as scholars and leaders. Established in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa has a presence on almost 1,300 community college campuses in 11 nations. The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) recognized Phi Theta Kappa as the official honor society for two-year colleges in 1929. More than 3.5 million students have been inducted since 1918, with approximately 250,000 active members in the nation’s community colleges, making Phi Theta Kappa a true catalyst among members and colleges.

The Honors ePortfolio is a digital collection that documents the knowledge, skills and abilities students have gained through all experiences in college. Creating and working on an ePortfolio allows students to figure out how the different aspects of their college experience fit together. In short, it offers an excellent opportunity to share their story with faculty and peers. It is advised that begin this project during your first semester. 

ePortfolio Benefits

• Discover your purpose. | Creating an ePortfolio allows you to figure out what is important to you and where you want to go in terms of a career. Treat it as your life journal in pursuit of transformation.

• Follow your progress. | ePortfolios give a more accurate account of all your knowledge and skills, which cannot be determined through a transcript or GPA. Displaying a thought process in your ePortfolio helps viewers get an idea of how you think and problem-solve. 

• Make yourself more marketable for jobs, internships and scholarships. | ePortfolios give employers a detailed inventory of what you have to contribute that goes beyond simply a resume. But even if you never share it, creating an ePortfolio is an excellent practice for talking about what is essential to you and what you want to accomplish. In addition, sharing with faculty helps you get better, more detailed recommendation letters.

Teaching an honors course is not required of faculty, but it adds to a faculty member’s teaching accomplishments and is considered a service to the college. Honors courses are intended to be more complex but not necessarily more difficult. Faculty who teach honors courses are highly encouraged to explore their own pedagogical boundaries. We know that teaching honors can enhance the lives of all students you work with, not just those who interact in honors courses. We believe the Honors Program serves as a nurturing ground for pedagogical innovation and exploration that transforms the quality of educational experiences across the college.