College Scholars Program

Jeffrey Kovac, Chemistry, Director

A limited number of freshmen and sophomores, entering transfer students with fewer than 42 credit hours, and resident students with fewer than 62 credit hours are invited each year to enter this distinguished honors curriculum. Selection is based on previous academic record, test scores, recommendations, a written essay, and a personal interview. Admission is provisional for two semesters; continuation depends upon maintenance of a satisfactory record (normally 3.25 or above) and evidence of ongoing motivation and interest.

The College Scholars Program affords the highest degree of freedom to the student in developing a meaningful curriculum. Each program is worked out individually with a special advisor (mentor) who under ordinary circumstances continues to advise the student throughout the college career. Together they determine what kinds of course work and/or other learning experiences will best fulfill the student’s objectives, while at the same time achieving the kind of liberal education the college believes is important for every student. In the final two years of the program, students will be heavily involved in independent study or research required of all college scholars. When college scholars fulfill departmental requirements for additional majors or minors, these will be recorded on the scholars’ transcripts. Scholars will not be required to meet Basic Skills or Distribution requirements in order to have such majors or minors officially recognized, but will be required to meet the University General Education Requirement.

Further information and applications may be obtained from the College Scholars Office, Howard H. Baker Center, or at http://web.utk.edu/~scholars/.