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Do master's degrees have a honors system?

Question:

Do master's degrees have a honors system?

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Answer:

In general, the honors system for college graduates is as follows (according to the University of Scranton):

Undergraduate (i.e., students who completed either an associate or a bachelor's degree program).

*cum laude ("with honors"): typically awarded to students who have a 3.5 (or higher) undergraduate GPA score.

*magna cum laude ("with high honors"): given to students with a 3.65 (or higher) GPA.

*summa cum laude ("with highest honors"): students must have a 3.85 (or higher) GPA to receive the highest level of distinction for undergraduate students.

In addition to earning certain GPA requirements to qualify for one of the three levels of high academic achievement, most students will also need to complete a certain number of credit hours (which will depend on the institution's policies).

Graduate (i.e., students who obtained a master's, doctoral, or a professional degree).

Unlike undergraduate students, graduate students are usually not eligible for the same honors. At most institutions, graduate students receive honorable distinctions based on the program and who earned the highest GPA in that program. At many universities, graduate students who exceeded expectations and requirements are often given "with distinction" recognition on their transcripts to honor their hard work.

For more information about how to earn and maintain a high GPA score throughout college, check out this article: Essential Tips for Maintaining Good Grades in College.

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