A woman pointing at a large screen with a bar graph on it.

Business Honors Direct Admit

Preparing for a brilliant future

Talented students benefit from an educational experience that matches their academic preparations and aspirations. Direct admission to Oakland’s School of Business through its Business Honors program assists high-achieving high school and transfer students excel in their endeavors. The only standalone Business Honors program at a Michigan university, the Oakland Business Honors program offers students a close-knit community inside the business school. Each cohort takes customized classes in special sections open only to them, engage in a host of unique experiences, and prepare for a brilliant future.

Business Honors Direct Admit students:

Are immersed in a highly interactive, stimulating program offering rigorous academics;
Access enhanced student support services;
Take part in international experiences;
Build strong leadership skills through required experiential learning activities;
Represent Oakland in national and international competitions;
Form a strong network with peers and members of the professional community that will serve them well in their careers.

Admission to Oakland’s Business Honors Direct Admit Program is limited to exceptional students who are chosen on a competitive basis. Prospective students must apply by completing a separate application.

Contact Us
Steven Stanton, Ph.D.
Faculty Director, Business Honors Program
[email protected]

Karen Person
Assistant Director of Experiential Programs
[email protected]

Want to learn more? Register for an Information Session on the tab below.

Apply to OU Apply to the Business Honors Program by May 1, 2025

Meet BHP Students

Fall Cohorts
Meet a few members of Oakland's Business Honors cohorts. These motivated students joined the OU Business School as freshmen through the Business Honors Direct Admit program. Now they are flourishing in an academic climate where examining topics, asking questions, challenging assumptions and expanding their horizons is encouraged and expected. Here's what they have to say about their experience.

Fall 2024 - Class of 2028

Business Honors Students Fall 2024
	Lindsberg Major: Business Administration What is the most interesting aspect of the business program? The cohort idea to be with the same people. Why did you choose to major in business? It’s something I have wanted to do since I was a child.
	Lucas Major: Marketing Why did you choose Oakland University? I chose Oakland University because it was close to home, which allows me to stay with my family, while also being active on campus. I also had heard a lot of great things from friends that had graduated. What is the most interesting aspect of the business program? I like the idea of a cohort system. Over the next four years I hope to form great friendships with my fellow classmates.
	Tooba Major: Business Administration Why did you choose Oakland University? I chose Oakland University because it was close to home and offered a Business Honors Program that really appealed to me. The campus environment felt like the perfect fit, providing both a supportive community and excellent academic opportunities. What activities/organizations are you involved with on campus? I am actively involved in several organizations on campus. I am a member of Women in Business, serve as the Secretary for the American Marketing Association, the Director of Marketing for Student Congress, and the Treasurer for Humanity First Oakland Chapter. These roles have allowed me to develop leadership skills and connect with like-minded peers.
	Nathan Major: Business Actuarial Science Why did you choose Oakland University? I chose Oakland because it was close to home, inexpensive, and had its Actuarial Science program well-integrated with the School of Business. The Business Honors Program drew me here too, since I knew I would form close bonds with other students in my cohort. What is the most interesting aspect of the business program? The events outside of class are the most interesting part of the BHP. The career-building events are particularly useful to me as someone who is just stepping into the Business world. The "Fun Events" are a great way to get to know my cohort and form lasting memories, and the service events allow me an opportunity to give back to the community.
	Thomas Major: Undecided What is the most interesting aspect of the business programs? Understanding how the businesses around us function and get things done. Also understanding why things happen the way they do in our economy and world. Why did you choose Oakland University? Oakland University was close to home and commutable. After visiting I loved the campus and how much they used the work “Free”. Free parking, free admission to games, all the included amenities.

Fall 2023 - Class of 2027

Business Honors Students Fall 2023
	Lily Major: Finance Why did you choose Oakland University? It is close to home, has a good reputation, I am able to play on the golf team, and they have a great business school. Why did you choose to participate in the Business Honors Program? I am always looking for ways to enhance my resume and prepare myself for the future. This seemed like a great opportunity to do both.
	Anthony Major: Accounting Why did you choose Oakland University? I chose Oakland University because I am interested in the Business Honors Program and the opportunities that come with it. I also chose Oakland University because it is close to home. Why did you choose to participate in the Business Honors Program? I chose the BHP because I wanted to be heavily involved into my interests within business at the start of my college career. I also like how business centric this program is.
	Ethan Major: Accounting Minor: Music (Flute) Why did you choose Oakland University? When I visited colleges, I liked the atmosphere at Oakland. It had a very personal feel. I also liked that it was close to home and I could commute to school. Why did you choose to participate in the Business Honors Program? I chose to participate in the BHP because of the hands-on experiences and internship offerings. I also enjoy the engagement opportunities provided.
	Tara Major: Finance and Wealth Management Minor: Biological Sciences Why did you choose Oakland University? The Business Honors program's structure, proximity to and from my hometown, and OU's ranking as one of Michigan's best colleges are the primary factors in my decision to attend Oakland University. Why did you choose to participate in the Business Honors Program? I chose BHP because they provide outside business opportunities to help students find an organization they can easily interact with during the school years. Being a part of a cohort-like atmosphere is also important, in my opinion, because it allows one to benefit from the in-depth expertise and real-world experience of others.
	Hemali Major: Undecided Why did you choose Oakland University? I grew up with people who went to OU and have only heard good things, and when I took a tour of the campus it only reassured me that it was the school for me! The Business Honors Program, specifically, was something I knew I wanted to be a part of and I knew I wouldn't find a program like it anywhere else. Why did you choose to participate in the Business Honors Program? There are unique experiences and connections to gain from this program through international experience and classes such as Freshman Seminar. The cohort structure is something I know I will appreciate because it is motivating to see my peers taking the initiative to learn and grow not only as a student but also as a person.
	Andrea Major: Marketing Minor: Visual Arts Why did you choose Oakland University? It has a reputation of being a good school, open to assisting and guiding students into successful career paths. It’s a school known for being caring and considerate towards their students. Why did you choose to participate in the Business Honors Program? It is a good opportunity to meet people with similar interests but also it offers so much to help students be successful throughout college and also give them a push and prepare them for what is to come after graduation.

Fall 2022 - Class of 2026

Business Honors Students Fall 2022
	Emily Major: Exploring Have you had any internships - if yes what was the most important lesson from that experience? I currently work at a law office and collections agency and have learned so much in the past year. Mostly, I've become well-versed in picking up new skills at the drop of a hat and adapting to difficult and different scenarios every day. It has also been important to learn how to operate in a professional setting with all different kinds of coworkers. What activities/organizations are you involved with on campus (or hope to be)? I plan to be active with the student government organizations on campus and the creative writing club. Judging by my past involvement with activities, probably many more as well!
	Mackenzie Major: Human Resources Management Why did you choose Oakland University? I grew up with OU in my backyard so to speak! As a kid I attended so many events, camps, and activities on campus over the years that it just feels like home now. Plus, I already have a huge collection of OU swag! Besides these memorable times, I chose OU for their reputable business program and smaller class sizes. In addition, I love the campus and positive vibe it radiates. Why did you choose to participate in the BHP? I am excited to be a part of the BHP to meet other peers with common interests and go through classes together as a cohort. I feel like being with the same group of classmates along this journey will encourage more growth as well as build a strong network with one another.
	Zohaib Major: Accounting Have you had any internships - if yes what was the most important lesson from that experience? Yes, I was a member of the Administrative Support Staff at the Salus Group and while I learned how to work audits, the most important lesson I learned was how to properly perform in a professional setting and make connections with other staff members. What activities/organizations are you involved with on campus (or hope to be)? Collegiate DECA, Oakland Accounting Student Information Society (OASIS), Entrepreneurs In Action, Muslim Student Association, Pakistani Student Association, Oakland University Judo Club

Fall 2021 - Class of 2025

Business Honors Students Fall 2021
	Isabel Major: Economics Why the OU and the Business Honors Program? Scholarships brought me to OU. The cohort style and small class size led me to the Business Honors Program. Involvement: Intramural volleyball, Younglife, Collective, Business Honors
	Ryan Major: Exploring What is most interesting about the Business Honors Program? I have already learned a lot about networking and have been able to apply some the skills learned in class to my life. The BHP seemed like a great way to meet new people with similar interests, and it allows me to take classes very well suited to my major sooner.
	Zac Major: Finance Why OU? I love the campus and it offered a lot of great opportunities. Why the Business Honors Program? It’s a great program with unique, hands-on business experience. Plus, smaller classroom environment and learning with same classmates together.

Information Session

Want to learn more? Attend an information session to learn about the engaging curriculum and experiences available for students in the Business Honors Direct Admit program.

10/21/24 - Business Honors Direct Admission - Virtual Information Session

11/18/24 - Business Honors Direct Admission - Virtual Information Session

12/19/24 - Business Honors Direct Admission - In-Person Information Session

Freshmen Highlights

Direct admission into Oakland’s business school puts motivated, high-achieving high school students on the fast-track to success. After being admitted, the Business Honors Direct Admit program also provides:

Opportunity for students to declare a major by the end of the freshman year
A structure designed to graduate students in four years
Pre-core and core courses taken as a cohort in special Honors sections
Unique experiential learning activities
International experiences
Customized Freshman and Senior Seminars

Transfer Highlights

Admission into the highly selective Business Honors Program keeps motivated, high-achieving transfer students on the fast-track to success. After being admitted, the Business Honors Direct Admit program also provides:

Opportunity for students to declare a major by the end of their first semester
Pre-core and core courses taken as a cohort in special Honors sections
Unique experiential learning activities
International experiences
Customized Learning Seminars
Mentorship opportunity with seasoned BHP students
Dedicated internship coordinator

How to Apply

Admission Requirements
Enrollment in the Business Honors Direct Admit Program is limited.

Freshmen
To be considered, incoming freshmen must have:

High school GPA of 3.7 or greater following junior year
The OU Business Honors Program is test optional and we will review ACT/SAT scores if students elect to submit them. Our students must complete Precalculus, as well as Composition 1, during the Fall of their first-semester in order to progress with their cohort.

Transfer
To be considered, incoming transfer students must:

Meet the criteria listed above for freshmen, and
Transfer GPA of 3.7 or greater from transfer institution
If students transfer in with less than 24 credits, the HS GPA is also required
If students transfer in with more than 24 credits, the HS GPA isn't required

Application
To be considered for direct admission into the Business Honors Program prospective students must:

First apply to and be accepted by Oakland University at 39680a.com/apply
Complete a Business Honors Program Supplemental Application

Apply to the Business Honors Program by May 1, 2025

Admission to Oakland’s Business Honors Program is limited to exceptional students who are chosen on a competitive basis. Completion of the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the School of Business Administration as a direct admission student.

Curriculum

Taught by some of our most dedicated faculty members, courses in the Business Honors Direct Admit Program feature:

Experiential, problem-solving activities (flipped classroom model)
Cased-based learning integrated across courses
Simulation-based capstone experience

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Business Honors Direct Admit students participate in at least one experiential learning opportunity each semester.

Additionally, Business Honors students participate in at least three experiential learning opportunities (one in each category) each semester. Events change each year and could include:

Career Focus
Career Trek
Employer Meet and Greet
Career Fair

Engagement Focus
Mix and Mingle
OU Basketball Game
Casino Night
Sledding

Service Focus
MLK Day of Service
Gleaners Stamp Out Hunger
Kindness Week
Baldwin Center partnership

International Experience

Business Honors Direct Admit students can fulfill the mandatory international experience requirement by taking a foreign language class or international business elective, participating in a study abroad program, or by taking a business course that includes an international trip. Scholarships are often made available to help business students offset the cost of an international trip.

Freshman Seminar

This seminar incorporates the professional and career development objectives of our recognized ACHIEVE program with elements designed especially for our exceptional Business Honors students. In addition to an introduction to choosing a career and major, money management, networking and student orgs, Business Honors students also review and discuss major issues facing businesses and the economy, take field trips to experience business in action, hear from guest speakers and review summer reading assignments.

Senior Experience

To graduate from the Business Honors Direct Admit program, students must demonstrate in a paper how the academic and experiential programs in the Honors Program combined with their major coursework to prepare them for a successful professional career. Students must also complete a portfolio that includes a professional resume, experiences in experiential programs, Honors leadership experiences, community service activities, job shadowing, and internship experience.

Business Honors Direct Admit Courses

Business Honors Direct Admit students take business pre-core and core courses as a cohort in special Honors sections.

ACC 2000H Introductory Financial Accounting

ACC 2100H Managerial and Cost Accounting

ECN 2010H Principles of Microeconomics

ECN 2020H Principles of Macroeconomics

ECN 3030H Managerial Economics

FIN 3220H Managerial Finance

MGT 3500H Legal Environment of Business

MGT 4350H Management Strategies and Policies

MIS 1000H Business Problem Solving with Information Technology

MIS 3000H Management Information Systems

MKT 3020H Marketing

ORG 3300H Introduction to Organization Behavior

ORG 3310H Introduction to the Management of Human Resources

POM 3430H Operations Management

QMM 2400H Statistical Methods for Business I

QMM 2410H Statistical Methods for Business II

SBC 1990H First-Year Seminar

SBC 3990H Senior Seminar

FAQ

Can I be part of the Oakland Honors College as well as the Business Honors program?
Absolutely. The Honors College and the Business Honors Direct Admit program are complementary. All Honors College core courses satisfy the general education requirements of Oakland University and some core courses may also satisfy the ethnic diversity and writing in the Gen Ed requirement. Students in the Honors College work toward completing the HC requirements in conjunction with their major.

What is an example of a required experiential learning activity?
The Oakland business school offers students many opportunities to take part in experiential learning activities. A few options include: Career Treks, serving at the Baldwin Center youth, and/or practicing your golf swing at one of OU's golf courses.

I can’t afford to travel, how can I meet the mandatory international experience?
While traveling internationally is a tremendous experience that students say it can’t be beat, it isn’t the only way to fulfill this requirement. Business Honors students can fulfill the international experience requirement by taking a foreign language class or international business elective. Keep in mind scholarships are often made available to help business students offset the cost of an international trip.

I want to live on campus. Can I extend my Honors experience in the residence halls?
There are a couple options for Honors students living on campus. Those students accepted into the Honors College and who meet other criteria can apply for a spot in the Honors College Living Learning Community in Oak View Hall. Business Honors students also have the option of applying to live on the Business Special Interest Floor in Hamlin Hall. Space is limited in both halls, so be sure to apply as soon as you are admitted to Oakland University.

Can I apply to the direct admit Business Honors program if I am not a freshman or transfer student?
You can only apply and be admitted to the Business Honors program as an incoming freshman or as a transfer student in good standing at your transfer institution.

Living Learning Community

LAUNCHING FALL 2024
Elevate your academic journey to new heights as a part of the new Business Honors Program Living Learning Community (BHP LLC).

Designed for the future leaders of the business world, this exclusive community is your gateway to a transformative college experience. As a member of the BHP LLC, you'll be surrounded by peers who are driven by a passion for business in a dynamic environment of collaboration and inspiration. You’ll form lasting friendships and professional connections which will extend far beyond your time at Oakland University. With unparalleled experiential learning opportunities and direct connections to dedicated faculty and staff members, the bonds you create within the BHP LLC will form the foundation of a powerful network, propelling you forward in your future career. Engage in group projects, discussions, and networking opportunities right from the comfort of your own home. Participants in the BHP LLC experience a direct connection to their classroom experiences, gain access to intentional programs, and benefit from career exploration and placement support.

Be among the first to take part in the Business Honors Program Living Learning Community at Oakland University. Join this residential community for the fall 2024-winter 2025 academic year.

Who is eligible to participate in the Business Honors Program Living Learning Community?
Whether you're a first-time-in-college (FTIAC) student or a non-first-year student looking to add more dimension in your college experience, the Business Honors Program LLC embraces all years. Any student who has been admitted to the Business Honors Program through the School of Business Administration is eligible to live in this community.

How do I apply to be a part of the Business Honors Program Living Learning Community?
When you submit your housing contract, be sure to indicate that you would like to participate in the BHP LLC. The University Housing Assignments team will connect with you directly regarding admittance and placement.

Where is the Business Honors Program Living Learning Community housed?
The BHP LLC is housed in Hillcrest Hall.

May I participate in the Business Honors Program Living Learning Community for more than one year?
Students may participate in the living learning community, and live in Hillcrest Hall, for multiple years, if desired.

School of Business Administration

Elliott Hall, Room 427
275 Varner Drive
Rochester, MI 48309-4485
(location map)