The Mahurin Honors College

Western Kentucky University's Mahurin Honors College (MHC) uniquely combines the academic rigor of a selective institution with the affordability and opportunities of a large public university. The MHC is tailored to propel students towards their goals and dreams. It offers a diverse range of opportunities for curricular and experiential customization. In honors courses, students benefit from smaller class sizes, fostering connections with peers and faculty, facilitating collaborative discussions, and expanding their knowledge base. Beyond the classroom, MHC scholars explore their passions through research, study abroad, internships, and leadership with dedicated support from our academic advisors.

When I was looking at schools, I noticed Western had a pretty solid Environmental Science Program with impressive outreach,” he said. He discovered the Mahurin Honors College during his research and decided to apply. “In a purely educational aspect, it’s been super helpful,” he said. He discussed how the honors classes he has taken so far have been more intimate and allowed him to develop a better relationship with the professors. Outside of an education standpoint, he’s been able to find a sense of community with other members of the honors college.

From Caves to Community: Noah Jennings' WKU Experience in Science and Sustainability, News from The Mahurin Honors College

Benefits and Opportunities

Membership Fee

MHC Housing

Chinese Language Flagship Program

The Chinese Language Flagship Program at WKU became the 9th such program in the nation, and the only program in Kentucky, in 2009. Our program is sponsored by The Language Flagship, an initiative of the National Security Education Program within the Defense Language and National Security Education Office.

Office of Scholar Development

The Office of Scholar Development (OSD) team mentors students applying for national scholarships for “academic extras” beyond what’s covered by tuition, such as study abroad, research, professional experience, and more.

WKU Global

Studying abroad with WKU Global can be one of the highlights of your career at WKU and is an excellent way to achieve personal, academic, and professional development. Wonderful and challenging experiences await you as you travel across the globe for an internship, service-learning project, or academic program that fits into your degree plan.

Information for High School Counselors

We look forward to partnering with you to empower the next generation of leaders. Explore the possibilities available to your students at Mahurin Honors College today!

History of MHC

Finding His Rhythm: Robbie Dye's First-Year Journey at WKU
May 12th, 2025
WKU Honors student Robbie Dye blends art, philosophy, and community through painting, drum circles, and campus engagement—making the familiar feel fresh....
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Beyond Words: Riley Hurm's Journey in Speech-Language Pathology
May 5th, 2025
Riley Hurm, a WKU senior in Communication Sciences & Disorders, found her calling in speech-language pathology, blending science, service, and global insight—from Kentucky to...
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Charlotte Bariteau - A Journey of Dance, Discovery, and Passion
Apr 28th, 2025
Charlotte Bariteau found her passion for dance at WKU, blending performance, research, and community, and now plans to pursue an MFA and a career in dance education....
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Booked, Busy, and Building a Legacy: Demani Bell's WKU Story
Apr 21st, 2025
WKU first-year Demani Bell is lighting up campus with his passion for theater, service, and community—balancing arts, advocacy, and leadership with heart and purpose....
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More Spotlights

For any questions, contact the WKU Mahurin College Team.