Most departments recognize student academic achievement through an honors program for which students may be nominated or apply depending on the rules of individual departments. Honors standing requires a minimum major grade point average (GPA) of 3.500 or higher and successful completion of a department’s additional requirements, which may include a senior project in the student’s major. Details are included under the appropriate departmental headings. Individual departments may require a higher minimum major GPA and/or a minimum overall GPA; in such cases, students must conform to departmental standards.

Degrees with distinction are awarded on the basis of students’ overall academic record at Lewis & Clark College (minimum 60 credits): cum laude (with honors), 3.700 to 3.799; magna cum laude (with high honors), 3.800 to 3.899; summa cum laude (with highest honors), 3.900 to 4.000.

The Dean’s List honors academic achievement each semester. Students who are enrolled full time and achieve a GPA of 3.700 or higher, with at least 12 graded semester credits, are named to the Dean’s List and this distinction is recorded on their transcript for the semester.

The Pamplin Society of Fellows singles out and brings together students and teachers of the highest caliber in a lifelong association beginning with study at Lewis & Clark. The fellows are chosen by the president of Lewis & Clark from students who show exceptional potential for leadership, maintain a superior GPA (normally 3.750 or higher), demonstrate an interest in physical fitness, and conduct themselves in an exemplary manner marked by integrity and service to others. Within its fundamental commitment to recognize outstanding merit, the Pamplin Society is strongly committed to ethnic diversity in its membership.

The Rena J. Ratte Memorial Award is made annually to recognize a senior whose abilities and commitment have combined to produce work of the highest distinction. Colleagues, students, and friends of the late professor Ratte established this award in 1970 in memory of the distinguished philosopher and esteemed teacher.

Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s oldest honor society, established a Lewis & Clark chapter in 1997. Members are chosen for their academic excellence and breadth in the liberal arts, as well as good character. 

The Senior Recognition Award (formerly the American Association of University Women Award) is open to all students and given annually to a graduating senior of outstanding scholarship, character, contributions to campus and community life, and potential for future achievement. 

The College of Arts and Sciences holds an annual convocation to honor students who are awarded departmental and collegewide honors.