“Welcome to the Faculty of Student Development—home to Career and Experiential Learning, the Honours College, and Academic Supports. We offer interdisciplinary education, career preparation and hands-on learning through diverse programs, co-op placements, study abroad, research and community engagement. Our dedicated faculty supports your academic journey, career goals and lifelong learning. Your success matters to us—wishing you a successful year ahead!”
Dr. Will Garrett-Petts
Interim Dean
What is an Honours College?
The Honours College at Thompson Rivers University is a dynamic learning community where curiosity, resilience and a commitment to making a difference are the most important qualifications.Here, excellence is defined by engagement, innovation and a passion for contributing to the social good. TRU’s Honours programming is dedicated to fostering success at the intersection of academic achievement and community involvement.
As part of TRU’s Faculty of Student Development, the Honours College offers integrative, interdisciplinary and cross-cultural education to curious and creative undergraduates in all majors. Open to undergraduates in all majors, the program is designed to enrich your educational experience and expand your horizons. We hope that you will join us in the Honours College as you create your journey at TRU.
The Honours College offers the University Honours Certificate—a first-of-its-kind program in Canada that integrates global, Indigenous and community-based perspectives into your education.
Why choose the Honours College?
Build lifelong connections with peers and professors through small, discussion-based seminars.
Expand your horizons with study abroad, co-op education and undergraduate research.
Explore real-world issues such as reconciliation, environmental sustainability and mental health.
Develop critical thinking, communication and leadership skills that set you apart in your field.
Experience the Honours College
Discover how the Honours College at Thompson Rivers University fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and meaningful connections. Our video highlights the vibrant community where curiosity, innovation, and collaboration thrive. Explore the unique opportunities available through interdisciplinary learning, global perspectives, and hands-on experiences that prepare you to make an impact. Join us on a journey that challenges boundaries, inspires change, and shapes future leaders.
Our vision
TRU Honours College reflects the university’s commitment to inclusivity, collaboration and transformative learning. Rooted in TRU’s Vision Statement, the Honours College fosters a sense of belonging and interconnectedness (“Kw’seltktnéws”), empowering students to grow as learners, leaders and change-makers. By connecting students, faculty and staff across disciplines, the Honours College creates an integrated educational experience where diverse voices are heard, valued and celebrated.
History
The Honours College at TRU was born from the university’s Integrated Strategic Planning Initiative, which aims to foster collaboration and build relationships across departments and disciplines. Aligned with TRU’s Vision Statement, the Honours College creates an educational experience that is community-minded, learner-centered and inclusive—a true “place of belonging” (Kw’seltktnéws: “we are all related and interconnected with nature, each other and all things”). This philosophy empowers students to transform themselves, their communities and the world.
The Honours College unites undergraduates from diverse backgrounds and academic programs to enhance their sense of belonging and build connections with peers, faculty and staff. This innovative program embraces diversity, fostering an inclusive environment where all identities are celebrated.
The Honours College embodies best practices from renowned honours programs in the U.S., Europe and Asia. This four-year program, beginning with an annual intake of 80 students, immerses students in honours seminar experiences, starting as a cohort in the first year of their studies.
TestimonialsWhat is an Honours College?
“TRU Honours College is a way for students to enrich their primary degrees through interdisciplinary learning, research and experiential opportunities. Because many people — students, employers — want graduates with extra depth in teamwork, community engagement, leadership and finding knowledge.”
Brett Fairbairn, President, TRU
“TRU’s new Honours College is committed to student success, expanding excellence through integrative learning.”
Will Garrett-Petts, Interim Dean, Faculty of Student Development
Education
The Honours College at Thompson Rivers University is a vibrant, close-knit learning community designed for students passionate about addressing big issues and driving positive change.
As part of TRU’s Faculty of Student Development, the Honours College offers integrative, interdisciplinary and cross-cultural education to curious and creative students from all majors.
What to Expect from Your Honours College Experience?
As you progress through the Honours Certificate, you’ll be encouraged to connect your learning across diverse and meaningful themes, including social and environmental engagement, global challenges, reconciliation, poverty, mental health and cultural development.
The Honours College curriculum is designed to help you discover and pursue your passions. With an integrative learning approach, the program fosters critical thinking, creativity and effective communication—skills that are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools alike.
As a student in the program, you will benefit from:
- Interdisciplinary coursework: Unique seminars such as “Secwépemc Understandings” and “Opening the Western Door.”
- Faculty mentorship: Opportunities to develop research and leadership skills.
- Career-focused training: Hands-on experiences like co-op placements and workforce readiness preparation.
- Holistic student support: Access to TRU’s Writing Centre, Wellness Centre, and intercultural learning programs.
In the Honours College, we encourage you to integrate your learning across themes like social and environmental engagement, global issues and cultural development. Start your journey with TRU and unlock your potential to make a difference.
Explore University Honours Certificate