About The Cheyney University Honors Academy

The Cheyney University Honors Academy serves high-achieving students committed to academic excellence, leadership, and service. Rooted in Cheyney University’s historic mission as the nation’s first HBCU, the Academy prepares scholars to lead with purpose and engage the world with integrity.

Guided by the pillars of Scholarship, Leadership, and Service, the Honors Academy is open to qualified, full-time undergraduate students across all majors. Through intentionally designed academic and co-curricular experiences, scholars are prepared for advanced study, competitive careers, and meaningful civic engagement.

Honors Scholars complete a minimum of 21 Honors credits, including a senior Honors capstone project, which count toward the 120 credits required for graduation. Honors credit is earned through designated Honors courses and approved courses-by-contract.

In addition, scholars complete 80 hours of community service before graduation (approximately 10 hours per semester), reinforcing Cheyney’s long-standing commitment to service beyond the classroom.

While admission to the Honors Academy is selective, select programs and signature events are open to the broader Cheyney community, fostering aspiration, collaboration, and a shared culture of achievement.

Eligibility and Admission

Students are eligible for consideration for acceptance into the Honors Academy if they meet one of the following criteria: they have applied to Cheyney University and are identified as potential Honors Scholars based on their high school academic record; their transfer record; or they are currently enrolled Cheyney students who have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.