FAQS

These are terms given to college graduates who achieve high grade point averages.  In other words, they indicate that the student receiving this distinction has been extremely successful in their academic program. Most often, you will see "summa" and "magna" connected to the Latin words, "cum laude" meaning "with honor."  Here is how these terms are ranked:

Cum laude = with honor

Magna cum laude = "with great honor"

Summa cum laude = "with highest honor"

There are probably variations between institutions as to what a student's GPA must be to achieve these academic distinctions.

Per the Rasmussen University Course Catalog as of 8/18/2022:

Academic Honors:

Each quarter, Rasmussen University recognizes outstanding academic achievement by awarding certificates of achievement. Enrolled, degree-seeking students who earn a quarterly grade point average of 3.25-3.749 will receive an Honor Roll certificate. Enrolled degree-seeking students who earn a quarterly grade point average of 3.75-4.00 will receive a Dean's List certificate.

Graduation Honors:

Rasmussen University recognizes outstanding academic achievement by awarding honors to graduates who meet minimum qualifications. Graduation honors will be noted on the diploma and transcripts of students, and they will receive gold cords for the graduation ceremony as a symbol of their achievement. 

Certificate, Diploma, and Associates Degree Honors

Students who complete all graduation requirements and earn a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher will graduate with honors

Bachelor's Degree Honors

Students who complete all graduation requirements and achieve a cumulative grade point of 3.50 or higher will graduate with one of the following honors:

• Cum Laude Bachelor's students who earn a cumulative grade point average of 3.50-3.669
• Magna Cum Laude Bachelor's students who earn a cumulative grade point average of 3.67-3.749
• Summa Cum Laude Bachelor's students who earn a cumulative grade point average of 3.75-4.00

Master's and Doctoral Degree Honors

Students who complete all graduation requirements and meet the following requirements will graduate "with distinction":

• GPA requirement 3.85 or higher for courses completed at the graduate level (5000 or above)