University Honors Program | Supplements | American University, Washington DC

Honors students may earn Honors credit for a non-Honors upper-level class through an Honors supplement. A supplement does not change the credit value of the course, it only adds Honors credit to a course, as noted by an H that is added to the student's transcript. A supplement involves an extra project that the student must complete, in addition to fulfilling the non-Honors course regular requirements. The supplement must be worth at least 20 percent of the final grade in the class.

Possible ways to complete an Honors supplement include, but are not limited to, the following:

An additional research paper, or a paper in a course that does not require a paper
An expanded paper assignment with emphasis on a higher level of analysis, not necessarily length, in lieu of a regular paper assignment (i.e., using more original sources or advanced readings)
Advanced or additional problem sets
A class presentation or lecture
In-depth class readings with summaries and reviews
Compilation of original artwork for a portfolio
Translation of a short story with analysis in the foreign language

Step-by-Step Faculty Guide to Supplementing

If an Honors student in your class has asked you to supervise an Honors supplement, then following these suggestions will help you in your role and to help the student achieve success:

When a student expresses an interest in doing supplementary work in your course to earn Honors credit for it, dedicate some time to speak with that student one-on-one about it. Allowing a student to supplement your course is entirely your decision.
Help the student formulate a project that would enhance his or her learning in your course and be enjoyable to work on, as well as fulfill your expectations.
Determine what percentage of the final class grade the supplement will be worth (it must be worth at least 20 percent of the final grade).
Agree upon a submission deadline for the project (the supplement must be completed by the end of the semester).
Request that the student present to you with a written proposal for the verbally agreed-upon project.
When you are satisfied with the proposal, the student will electronically submit the Honors Supplement Form and you will receive the link to approve the form.
When the student completes the agreed-upon supplement, grade the project as you would any other course work.
Submit your class grade at the end of the semester, as you would normally.