Signature academic programs at UVM are cohort-based experiences that go beyond traditional coursework to bring likeminded students together for academically rigorous learning opportunities. In each program, students live together in the same residence hall for one to two years to reinforce connections and learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Some programs require a separate application after you’ve been admitted to UVM, while others are by invitation only. No matter which program is right for you, you'll join a community that challenges and supports you every step of the way.
Patrick Leahy Honors College
Excellence Meets Opportunity
Named one of the 50 Best Honors Colleges in the U.S. (College Transitions, 2024), the Patrick Leahy Honors College is a highly selective residential college enrolling the most talented and committed students from across the globe. Invitation to the Honors College is based on a holistic review of high school performance where many factors are considered to build a class with varied backgrounds and perspectives. There are students from a wide variety of majors in the Honors College, and no separate application is required.
The Honors experience complements and enriches the entire undergraduate experience, with Honors students receiving access to special advising, networking events and undergraduate research opportunities. Most first-year scholars live in the Honors residence hall at University Heights North, with academic mentors and the Office of Fellowships, Opportunities, and Undergraduate Research (FOUR) available right on the lower floors of the building.
| Entry | By Invitation (no separate application required) |
| Who's Eligible | Invitation is based on a holistic review of high school performance and other factors |
| Cohort Housing | First year and sophomore year |
Liberal Arts Scholars Program
Explore with Purpose and Passion
The Liberal Arts Scholars Program (LASP) offers first-year students in the College of Arts and Sciences a unique opportunity to dive into small, seminar-style courses alongside a close-knit cohort of peers who share their academic interests. With a residential component and strong faculty mentorship, LASP creates a vibrant community where students can explore big ideas, build lasting connections, and prepare for future opportunities like research, internships, and honors programs.
| Entry | Application Required |
| Who's Eligible | First-year students admitted to the College of Arts and Sciences |
| Cohort Housing | First year |
STEM Scholars: Leading Change
From Lab to Leadership
The STEM Scholars: Leading Change program is a cohort-based learning community developing future leaders in STEM. Through the four-year program, STEM Scholars will not only excel in their chosen STEM discipline but also develop the skills to become change leaders in inclusive excellence.
It all begins with a six-week summer bridge program where students will take coursework, work in a research lab, and develop technical skills. Then, throughout their four years at UVM, STEM Scholars will participate in research, networking, leadership retreats, career coaching, and more. From academic excellence to career, research, and graduate school enrollment, the program prepares scholars to meet their own highest expectations.
| Entry | No separate application required (express interest by providing your contact information). |
| Who's Eligible | First-year students in select majors admitted through Early Action or Early Decision I |
| Cohort Housing | First year |
Grossman School of Business Trail Blazers Leadership Program
Empowering Future Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs
The Trail Blazers Leadership Program brings together innovative leaders who are ready to shape the future of business. Entrepreneurial-minded students will participate in monthly networking lunches, workshops with industry speakers, job shadow days, and community service projects designed to hone the skills today’s employers are looking for. Through the program, funding is also available for experiential learning opportunities such as study abroad, case and pitch competitions, leadership conferences, and research.
| Entry | Application Required |
| Who's Eligible | First-year students admitted to the Grossman School of Business |
| Cohort Housing | First year and sophomore year |
Impact Scholars
Commitment to Community and Public Service
Impact Scholars is a program for first-year students designed to foster leadership, innovation, and community engagement. This selective initiative will bring together a small cohort of students who share a passion for creating positive change and reflect the unique qualities that recently earned UVM recognition as the nation’s top public university for “making an impact,” according to The Princeton Review. Students designated as Impact Scholars will be part of a distinctive community committed to shaping the future, with many opportunities to connect, collaborate, and make their mark from the very first day of their UVM journey.
| Entry | By Invitation (no separate application required) |
| Who's Eligible | First-year students admitted to the College of Arts and Sciences |
| Cohort Housing | First year |
Welcome Home: University Heights
You'll live with the other students in your cohort, providing opportunities for meaningful connections outside the classroom. University Heights offers comfortable common areas and kitchens, private bathrooms in each suite, and an in-demand location on campus.
Explore University HeightsWelcome Home: University Heights
You'll live with the other students in your cohort, providing opportunities for meaningful connections outside the classroom. University Heights offers comfortable common areas and kitchens, private bathrooms in each suite, and an in-demand location on campus.
Explore University Heights