Academics
The Sociology Department gives out four Undergraduate Awards annually and provides the following Honors opportunities: Departmental Distinction, LAS College Honors and the Campus Honors Program.
DEPARTMENTAL DISTINCTION

The process for Departmental Distinction eligibility review begins when the College of LAS sends the Department a list of students whose overall GPA is greater than 3.25 which occurs in the latter part of the Fall and Spring semesters. This honor is reflected on your transcript and diploma. 

In order to achieve distinction, high distinction, or highest distinction, a sociology major must meet the following requirements:

  • Have completed SOC 495 or 490*
    *SOC 490 is allowed if taken during a semester that SOC 495 is not offered AND if approved by the department.

AND

  • Attain a UIUC GPA of 3.25 or higher

If both of these requirements are met, then the MAJOR GPA distributes as follows:

  • 3.25 - Distinction
  • 3.50 - High Distinction
  • 3.75 - Highest Distinction

Enrollment in Sociology 495 is restricted to juniors and seniors who have permission. Keep in mind that Sociology 495 is usually offered only in Spring semesters. Sociology 490 is an Advanced Independent Study course, which requires permission from the Academic Advisor as well as coordination with a faculty member.

 

HIGHEST GPA FOR A SOCIOLOGY SENIOR

This award acknowledges the Senior in Sociology who has attained the Highest Overall Grade Point Average. This award is determined by final grades, no application is required.

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AWARD

The Student Engagement Award highlights a student in Sociology who has been active in the University of Illinois and/or Champaign-Urbana community.  This student stands out for their engagement, activism and leadership within the community. Must be a Sociology major, open to all grade levels.

Apply Here

Applications open in Mid-March annually with winners selected in early May. 

OUTSTANDING SENIOR IN SOCIOLOGY AWARD

This award is given to a senior who demonstrates involvement with the community, has leadership achievements, academic success, and a dedication to their sociology education. Must be graduating within the academic year that the award is being given.

Apply Here

Applications open in Mid-March annually with winners selected in early May. 

BEST UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT PAPER AWARD

The Best Undergraduate Student Paper Award recognizes outstanding achievement in a Sociology student’s research and writing abilities. Students are nominated by a faculty member. The paper must be written/submitted during the current academic year, and priority is given to students whose major/first major is Sociology. No application required.

 

LAS AND CAMPUS HONORS PROGRAMS

To be eligible to graduate with LAS College Honors, you must do one of the following:

  • Graduate with departmental distinction.
  • Complete 25 hours of honors courses 
  • Earn 35 hours of advanced course work (see LAS Student Handbook).

Admission to LAS Honors

Information for James Scholars

Information for Chancellor Scholars or Campus Honors Program