Houston City College Online Honors College connects high-achieving students through flexible learning

Houston City College (HCC) is expanding opportunities for academically ambitious students through its Global Online Honors College, which launched in spring 2025 to bring the benefits of honors education to students who need the flexibility of a virtual learning environment. 

The program was established to serve students who may not be able to participate in the traditional campus-based honors experience while maintaining academic rigor and engagement associated with honors education.

James Ross-Nazzal, Ph.D., founder and director of the Global Online Honors College, said during a recent appearance on Up 2 the Minute that developing the program required building an online honors model from the ground up. 

“Admission standards mirror those of the traditional Honors College,” he shared. "That means having the GPA requirements and a demonstrated ability to succeed in a collaborative learning environment.”

While traditional honors students move through coursework and activities together on campus, the online program fosters engagement through shared virtual experiences that help students build connections despite different schedules and locations.

"I do cohorts by experiences," Dr. Ross-Nazzal said. "I create these virtual experiences to keep them together." 

In addition to rigorous academics, students receive more faculty interaction, mentoring and opportunities to complete creative, project-based assignments that align with their interests and career goals. Honors coursework is integrated into existing degree plans, allowing students to fulfill core curriculum requirements while earning honors distinctions. 

Ross-Nazzal said the program has already produced notable student success stories, including a homeschooled student who completed high school while earning an associate degree.

"She was just a machine," he said. "Anything I asked her to do; she did it beyond my expectations." 

As the Online Honors College continues to grow, it remains focused on providing flexible pathways for students seeking the challenge and recognition of an honors education without the constraints of a traditional campus schedule. 

Students interested in joining the Online Honors College must be enrolled full time and prepared to take online courses. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Honors College to learn more about eligibility and the application process. 

For more information about HCC degree programs and certifications, visit hccs.edu.