Division of General Studies (DGS)
James Scholar Program
In DGS, we value exploration in its varied forms. This spirit of discovery is built into our James Scholar Honors Program, as our high-achieving students explore their many passions, interests, and talents.
- Gain understanding of 21st century skills that are valuable for all majors and all careers
- Learn more about applying your passions, strengths, and interests
- Be involved in original research and work one-on-one with faculty members
- Service learning activities and active engagement in the community around you
- Leadership opportunities within DGS and across campus
- Enjoy benefits like early priority registration and recognition at graduation
Freshman Experience
In the first semester, DGS freshmen James Scholars enroll in GS 102/199, our honors seminar. The theme of this course is "Preparing for 21st Century Challenges." This course engages students in strengths development, building transferrable skills, exploring academic choices, and understanding the landscape of 21st century careers (regardless of academic major).
Students in their second semester will choose from a selection of DGS honors courses. These courses further explore aspects of the dialogue started in the GS 102/199 experience.
Spring 2010 DGS Honors Course Options:
- Business Communication – CMN 211
- The Campus and Environmental Responsibility – NRES 199
- Service-Learning in Washington – SOCW 199
- Creativity, Innovation, and Vision – ENG 298
- Introduction to Leadership Studies – AGED 260
- Writing with Video – ART 250
- Is Humanity Doomed? An Investigation of Classic Psychological Research – PSYC 199
Sophomore Experience
As James Scholars enter their second year, the honors opportunities become divergent, allowing each student to gear honors requirements toward his or her own academic and personal interests.
Possible options include:
- enrolling in special honors courses.
- enhancing a standard course with an Honors Credit Learning Agreement.
- serving as a member of the DGS Honors Council.
Declaring a Major
Once DGS students declares a major, they will maintain their James Scholar status as they transition into their new college.
How do DGS James Scholars get involved?
- Join our newly-formed Honors Teams, such as the Creative Commons, Mentor Program, Social, Volunteer, and Street Teams
- Serve in a leadership position on the DGS Honors Council
- Attend social and volunteering events coordinated by our Honors Teams
Becoming a DGS James Scholar
Approximately 12% of incoming DGS freshmen are invited to participate in the James Scholar Honors Program, based on an evaluation of their admissions application. No additional application is required, and all applicants are automatically considered for the program.
Continuing students who have earned an Illinois cumulative GPA of 3.6 or higher are qualified to self-nominate at the beginning of their second or third semester.