Challenge Yourself. Expand Your Horizons.
The Honors Institute at Buena Vista University is designed for academically ambitious students who want to go beyond the classroom. Through faculty mentorship, undergraduate research, travel opportunities, and interdisciplinary learning, you'll develop the knowledge, leadership skills, and experiences that prepare you for graduate school, competitive careers, and lifelong success.
Learn Beyond the Classroom
As a member of the Honors Institute, you'll explore big ideas through small, discussion-based courses while working alongside faculty mentors on original research and creative projects.
Your experience extends far beyond campus with opportunities to travel, present research at national conferences, and engage with organizations and destinations such as the Mayo Clinic and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.
Opportunities That Set You Apart
Faculty Mentorship
Work one-on-one with faculty mentors to complete an original undergraduate research or creative project.
Research & Innovation
Receive funding to conduct research, explore your interests, and present your work at regional and national conferences.
Travel Experiences
Expand your perspective through domestic and international travel opportunities that complement your academic experience.
Honors Community
Take small interdisciplinary courses, connect with motivated peers, and enjoy honors-specific housing designed to foster collaboration and community.
Honors Benefits
Invest in Your Potential
As an Honors Institute student, you'll have access to:
-Priority class registration
-Honors designation on your transcript and at graduation
-Honors-specific residential community
-$500 undergraduate research funding
-Up to $2,500 for approved credit-bearing travel experiences
-Funding to present research at regional and national conferences
See the World Through Your Studies
Second-year Honors students may apply for Domestic or International Travel Fellowships that combine coursework with immersive travel experiences.
Students participate in a preparatory course before completing a credit-bearing travel experience while engaging in global learning opportunities both on and off campus.
Turn Your Ideas into Reality
The Mack Family Honors Innovation Fellowship supports exceptional Honors students pursuing ambitious research, scholarship, entrepreneurship, or creative projects.
Selected students complete an extended learning experience beyond BVU during their junior or senior year, turning their curiosity into meaningful impact.
"In the Honors Institute, there are so many ways for us to learn and gain skills that help shape our future. During my time at BVU, I've developed a sense of accomplishment and optimism."— Kristen Davis, Class of 2026
Admissions
Honors Institute Eligibility
Students are selected based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and a desire to pursue undergraduate research.
Applicants must:
-Be admitted or accepted to BVU's Storm Lake campus
-Have a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher
-Rank in the top 10% of their graduating class
-Complete the Honors Institute application
Ready to Join the Honors Institute?
Challenge yourself through research, travel, faculty mentorship, and academic experiences that prepare you to lead in graduate school, your career, and beyond.