Does the University of Chicago have an honors college or honors program for undergraduates?

No. The University of Chicago does not have a separate honors college or a campuswide formal honors program for undergraduates in the way many large public universities do. UChicago’s model is built around a rigorous Core Curriculum, small discussion-based classes, and easy access to advanced coursework, research, and graduate-level study rather than an honors track layered on top.

What you may be seeing are departmental honors and academic distinctions. Many majors offer honors options, which usually involve a high GPA in the field, advanced seminars, and often a substantial BA thesis or similar independent project. UChicago also awards Latin honors such as honors, high honors, and highest honors at graduation based on academic performance and department criteria.

There are also selective academic opportunities that can sound honors-like without being a formal honors program. Examples include intensive major sequences, research with faculty, and highly selective fellowships such as the Dean’s Scholars program in certain divisions. Students can also take graduate courses when appropriate, which is one of the main ways UChicago supports advanced students.