Davidson Honors College

Choose Honors at the University of Montana

Join an interdisciplinary community of scholars that will elevate, enrich and enliven your college experience. The Davidson Honors College at the University of Montana brings together talented, motivated learners from all over the nation and the world, offering a flexible, personalized honors college for students in any major.

Students completing required Honors College classes and experiences (including a capstone research or creative project) graduate as University Scholars – UM's highest academic honor. Highlighted by distinctive learning and leadership development opportunities, our honors college empowers graduates to make real and lasting positive contributions to society.

The Davidson Honors College Experience

Through a combination of rigorous coursework, exciting out-of-classroom opportunities such as undergraduate research and experiential learning, our Honors College students innovate new and exciting directions to take their interests, blazing their way into graduate school and the job market.

Learning opportunities in the Honors College

From small discussion-based classes, interdisciplinary coursework, internships, study abroad, and field-based and service experiences, Davidson Honors College students engage in a world-class undergraduate education. Our faculty members are passionate teachers, mentors, and scholars who are actively engaged in the community.

Honors College advising and mentorship

Our students are embraced by the holistic network of support at the Davidson Honors College. This includes specialized assistance from faculty mentors and professional staff in exploring and achieving their academic and professional aspirations.

Student leadership and community involvement

Honors program students are leaders on campus and in the community: student government, major-based organizations, athletics, activism, and the arts. An active Honors Student Association, Living and Learning Community and Ambassador group, and Student Advisory Council provide further opportunities for involvement.

University of Montana Honors College Programs

We are a vibrant, inclusive community dedicated to strengthening our positive impacts on the world. From career development support to Climate Change Studies to developing policy solutions for Missoula, Davidson Honors College offers a variety of programs that empower students to achieve their greatest potential.

Preparing for your career

The Davidson Honors College provides career advising for students and increases post-college placement rates and overall job satisfaction of honors degree graduates. Learn more about the Career Development Resources at Davidson Honors College.

Climate Change Studies

Join the nation's first interdisciplinary undergraduate degree program in climate change studies. The Climate Change Studies (CCS) program offers a multidisciplinary understanding of the scientific and societal dimensions of climate change, providing students with opportunities to become informed and engaged on the issue. Visit the Climate Change Studies website.

The QUEST Program

The QUEST Program is an exciting partnership with the Missoula government and community partners for students to develop innovative solutions to address some of the biggest questions. Combining the best of academic innovation and civic engagement, QUEST is open to students from freshmen to seniors.

Alumni Success Story: Lexi Klawitter

“I loved the flexibility afforded by Davidson Honors College. While studying biology, I was able to pursue another passion of mine, supporting survivors of sexual assault. With assistance from the honors program, I created an event called The Missoula Monologues, where people share their life stories. The encouragement I received from Davidson Honors College to individualize my education and transform my dreams into achievable goals was outstanding. Additionally, I loved the Honors College community. I met lifelong friends within my honors program cohort, and our little Griz family regularly gets together to reconnect with virtual hangs.”

— Lexi Klawitter, Davidson Honors College graduate, Human Biological Sciences major at UM, currently earning a Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences

Virtually Visit the Davidson Honors College

University of Montana Honors College Benefits

What are honors colleges able to offer students to help them succeed in their lives and careers? At UM, we focus on the skills and experiences today's employers value most: critical thinking, problem solving, communications, research and leadership. We lift one another up and are a positive force in the lives of our students, our campus, our community and the world.

• Interdisciplinary focus on big, complex issues, bringing together talented, motivated students from every major at UM.
• Flexible curriculum that allows you to build the honors program that fits best with your academic and professional goals.
• Experiential opportunities including research, creative activity, study abroad, internships and service learning.
• World-class academic experience with small honors college classes, an active student community and generous scholarship program.
• Incredible student support with honors college academic and professional advising.

Davidson Honors College Scholarships

Honors students have access to three distinct scholarship opportunities within the Davidson Honors College (DHC):

1. Incoming Student Scholarships: First-time freshmen who submit their DHC application by December 1 may be considered for incoming student scholarships. These awards are reserved exclusively for students entering UM for the first time.
2. Annual Honors Scholarships: Current honors students are encouraged to apply for our annual scholarships in October and March. These scholarships are typically designed to supplement and enhance the student experience—such as funding for study abroad travel, internship support, research supplies, and other academic enrichment opportunities.
3. External Scholarships and Fellowships: The DHC also houses the Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships, which offers guidance and support for students pursuing prestigious national and international awards. These include the Rhodes, Truman, Fulbright, Udall, Goldwater, Gilman, and other highly competitive scholarships.

Honors College scholarships for incoming students

The Davidson Honors College (DHC) offers competitive, merit-based scholarships to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and potential. These include UM’s top academic awards: the Presidential Leadership Scholarship (PLS), Provost’s Honors Scholarship (PHS), and Dean’s Leadership Scholarship (DLS).

These scholarships reduce the cost of attendance and are renewable for up to four years with satisfactory progress. We’re looking for motivated, well-rounded students. Strong academics are important, but not the only factor—we encourage all driven and curious learners to apply. Learn more about incoming student scholarships.

Scholarships for continuing Honors College students

Students may apply for and earn scholarships while they pursue graduation as a University Scholar. Awards are made in both spring and fall semesters based on need and merit, providing specialized support for internships, field experiences, study abroad, and undergraduate research. Learn more about scholarships for current honors program students.

External scholarships and fellowships

Receive personalized support as you reach for the stars! UM has one of the country's highest historical public institution win rates for nationally and internationally competitive scholarships, such as the Rhodes, Truman, Fulbright, Goldwater, Udall, and others. Learn more about external scholarships and fellowships.

Davidson Honors College Application Information

We encourage applications from both incoming freshmen and transfer students. Current UM students who didn’t begin in the honors program but are now considering it as a good fit are invited to apply.