The College of Education & Human Development offers honors opportunities that enrich the undergraduate experience through advanced coursework, faculty mentorship, leadership development and hands-on research. Honors students engage more deeply with their field of study while developing the skills and experiences that prepare them for graduate study, professional careers and lifelong learning.
Explore Honors Opportunities
Teacher Education Honors
The Teacher Education Honors Program prepares future educators to become scholars, researchers and leaders in the field of education. Beginning in the spring of the sophomore year, students engage in a three-semester honors experience that combines critical inquiry, leadership development and hands-on research.
A hallmark of the program is the opportunity to work directly with College of Education & Human Development faculty on original education research, gaining valuable experience in the research process while exploring issues that impact schools, students and communities.
Honors Coursework
Special Readings in Education: This discussion-based seminar explores foundational and contemporary issues in education, including educational philosophy, historical and international perspectives, educational technology and current topics shaping the field.
Research Seminar: Students learn about educational research methods, ethics and inquiry while developing the knowledge and skills needed to conduct and evaluate research. The course also supports students as they work alongside faculty mentors on research projects.
Leadership Seminar: This course helps students develop leadership skills through discussion, reflection and engagement with accomplished leaders from a variety of professions. Topics include leadership styles, ethical decision-making, collaboration and navigating complex challenges.
Research Lab: Students work closely with faculty mentors on research projects across a wide range of educational disciplines, including special education, counseling, educational psychology, learning technologies, policy and curriculum studies. The honors experience culminates in a research presentation at the University of Missouri Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievements Forum.
Students are selected for the program during their sophomore year and must maintain a 3.5 GPA to graduate with College of Education & Human Development Honors distinction.
Contact an advisor for more information.
Human Development & Family Science Honors
The Human Development & Family Science Honors Program prepares students to become scholars, researchers and leaders in the fields of human development and family science. Through advanced coursework, faculty mentorship and original research experiences, students deepen their understanding of children, families and communities while developing valuable academic and professional skills.
A defining feature of the program is the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors on independent research projects, allowing students to explore topics of personal and professional interest while gaining experience in the research process.
Honors Experiences
Advanced Coursework: Honors students engage in enriched academic experiences that encourage deeper exploration of topics in human development and family science, while strengthening critical thinking, communication and analytical skills.
Faculty-Mentored Research: Students work with faculty mentors to learn about research methods, develop scholarly inquiry skills and explore issues affecting individuals, families and communities.
Independent Honors Project: Students complete an independent honors project focused on a topic of interest within human development and family science. This culminating experience allows students to apply their knowledge, contribute to the field and showcase their research and professional growth.
Professional Development: The program encourages students to develop leadership, presentation and professional skills that prepare them for graduate study, research opportunities and careers in human services, education, health and related fields.
Through these experiences, honors students gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence human development and family well-being while joining a community of engaged scholars committed to making a positive impact.
The HDFS Honors program is a three-semester sequence of courses and mentored research for students who meet eligibility requirements.