Overview
Includes the undergraduate University Honors requirements, GPA thresholds, and important commencement deadlines to understand how honors designations are determined.
Graduating with Honors (Undergraduates Only)
To qualify for Graduation with University Honors (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, or Summa Cum Laude), an undergraduate student:
- Must meet all requirements for a baccalaureate degree.
- Must earn a minimum of 30 semester undergraduate credit hours from Minnesota State.
- Must have the appropriate minimum cumulative (including transfer credits) grade point average to satisfy honor requirements.
- Cum Laude: minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4.
- Magna Cum Laude: minimum cumulative GPA of 3.6.
- Summa Cum Laude: minimum cumulative GPA of 3.8.
For the purposes of a commencement ceremony, honors designation is based on all work completed at Minnesota State University, Mankato, as well as applicable transfer credits, as of:
- March 15 for May commencement
- November 1 for December commencement.
At the time of commencement, a final evaluation of academic records has not been completed. Once final evaluations and the posting of degrees takes place, the official university transcript will reflect the honors designation, based on all work completed as part of the degree.
Honor Medallions are available for purchase from Maverick Shop at Minnesota State Mankato.
FAQ
Where can I find my total cumulative GPA?
You can find your total cumulative GPA on your unofficial transcript.
Is the total cumulative GPA rounded up for honors designation?
No. The total cumulative GPA is not rounded up or down. Honors designations are determined based on the exact cumulative GPA recorded at the time the degree is conferred.
Can I appeal the honors designation listed for commencement if I believe my final degree honors will be different after degree conferral?
No. The honors designation published for commencement is based on the total cumulative GPA based on the dates listed in the policy. Because final grades and degree conferral occur after this process, the commencement designation cannot be appealed or adjusted based on projected GPA outcomes.
If my total cumulative GPA is just below an honors designation threshold, can I appeal to receive the higher designation?
No. Honors designations are awarded strictly according to the established cumulative GPA requirements. Exceptions or appeals cannot be granted for GPAs that fall below an honors threshold, regardless of how close they may be.
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