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Learn by Doing. Lead by Discovering.

The School of Management and Labor Relations (SMLR) Honors Program offers high-achieving students the opportunity to conduct original research, work one-on-one with faculty mentors, and graduate with distinction.

As part of the SMLR Honors Program, you’ll join a community of scholars who connect curiosity with real-world impact—turning questions about people, work, organization, and leadership into ideas that shape a better world of work.

For Rutgers Honors College Students:

If you are a Rutgers Honors College student, the SMLR Honors Program fulfills the Honors College Capstone Project under Option 2, School-Based Honors Project.

Why Join the SMLR Honors Program?

Image of being inspired icon lightbulb with gear insidePersonal Fulfillment – Be Inspired

Live the life of a scholar—ignite your curiosity, ask bold questions, and explore ideas that matter to you. Through hands-on research and mentoring, you’ll transform your interests into purpose and strengthen skills that support lifelong learning and well-being.

Image of empowerment iconProfessional Edge – Be Empowered

Graduate with distinction and signal to the world that you went above and beyond. Your Honors thesis showcases your ability to think independently, solve complex problems, and lead with insight—opening doors to graduate school, policy, law, or industry.

Image of networking iconCommunity & Mentorship – Be Connected

Join a network of peers and faculty mentors who share your drive for discovery. Collaborate, exchange ideas, and present your work at the annual SMLR Honors Symposium, where your research and voice make an impact.

Application Process

Step 1 – Verify Your Eligibility

Students who meet the following criteria are eligible to apply for the SMLR Honors Program:

  • Declared SMLR major (BA HRM, BA LSER, or BS LER).
  • Major GPA of 3.5+ and overall GPA of 3.0+
  • Junior standing
  • Completion of one research or statistics course (eligible courses: 37:575:401, 37:575:404, 37:533:440, 01:960:401, 01:920:311, or equivalent).

If you have any questions about your eligibility for the SMLR Honors Program, please contact a student counselor for your program of study. A list of the SMLR student counselors can be found here.

Step 2 – Apply to the SMLR Honors Program

If you are eligible to apply based on the criteria listed above, submit your online application by February 15.

> Click here to access the online SMLR Honors Program application

As part of the online application form, you will be asked to upload a one-page, single-spaced letter of interest. It is recommended that you preview the application in advance to prepare your answers.

Step 3 – Acceptance & Enrollment

Students will receive notification of being accepted to the SMLR Honors Program by March 15.

Upon acceptance into the program, enroll in SMLR Honors 37:624:498 for Fall and 37:624:499 for Spring of your senior year.

Step 4 – Present Your Project & Graduate with Distinction

At the conclusion of your Honors experience, present your thesis project at the SMLR Honors Symposium in April and graduate with the distinction of SMLR Honors!

Students who successfully complete the SMLR Honors Program are recognized during the SMLR Convocation Ceremony held in May each year. 

Questions?

If you have questions about the SMLR Honors Program, consult your student counselor or contact your undergraduate program director: