Latin Honors

WVU recognizes distinguished academic achievement by awarding degrees cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude. This distinction can be awarded on initial baccalaureates and specified entry-level professional degrees. Students who received academic forgiveness are not eligible to graduate with honors.  All eligible candidates for a baccalaureate with a GPA of 3.8 or higher graduate summa cum laude. Those with a grade point average of less than 3.8, but equal to or above 3.6, graduate magna cum laude. Those with a GPA of less than 3.6, but equal to or above 3.4, graduate cum laude. All calculations for Latin Honors will be based on the overall GPA.

The GPA for honors consideration is based on WVU baccalaureate-level college work attempted through the final semester.  This calculation includes baccalaureate-level college work transferred to WVU from higher education institutions attended. Credit hours earned with a grade of P or S are not considered in the determination. However, failing grades, are computed as hours attempted. Students must meet residency requirements at WVU to be considered for graduation with honors.

The GPA for honors consideration for entry-level professional degrees is based on professional-level work attempted through the last semester. This calculation includes professional-level college work transferred to WVU from higher education institutions attended. Credit hours earned with a grade of P or S are not considered in the determination.

Students entering and completing a second baccalaureate program, following completion of the initial degree, are not eligible to receive the honors designation.

The grade point average through the penultimate semester will be used for notations in the commencement programs.