Make the Most of Your JPHP Experience
Being part of the James Patterson Honors Program (JPHP) means more than participating in honors coursework. Throughout your time at Manhattan University, you will have opportunities to develop as a student, leader, and engaged member of the University community.
View the 2026-27 JPHP Student Handbook
From speaker events and professional workshops to mentorship and community engagement, your involvement in JPHP helps you build meaningful relationships, discover new interests, and prepare for life beyond graduation.
The Blue Circle: Your JPHP Experience
The Blue Circle is the foundation of the JPHP student experience. It brings together academic coursework, professional development, community engagement, and social activities to support your growth throughout the program.
Students participate in several types of activities each semester to remain engaged with the JPHP community and take full advantage of the opportunities available to them.
James Patterson Speaker Series
Participation expectation: Two events per semester.
Attend presentations and discussions featuring accomplished professionals, authors, innovators, and leaders. These events provide opportunities to explore new perspectives, ask questions, and build professional connections.
Learn more about the James Patterson Speaker Series
Trailblazer Sessions
Participation expectation: Four events per semester.
Participate in professional workshops, meet-and-greets, community engagement activities, and other development experiences. Trailblazer Sessions help students strengthen practical skills, explore interests, and contribute to the University community.
Blue & White Events
Participation expectation: Two events per semester.
Connect with fellow honors students through athletic events, social gatherings, JPHP room activities, and other community-building experiences. These events help create lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.
JPHP Coursework
JPHP combines specialized coursework with the academic requirements of each student's degree program.
- Traditional students: Four JPHP courses.
- Transfer students: Two JPHP courses.
- Senior experience: A high-impact design or capstone project for all students.
The Blue Circle participation expectations are designed to support students throughout their four years in the program.
Program Expectations
As a member of the James Patterson Honors Program, you are expected to contribute positively to an academic community built on respect, collaboration, and shared achievement.
All JPHP students are expected to:
- Actively pursue required JPHP coursework.
- Attend program events, workshops, and seminars.
- Demonstrate professionalism in academic and community settings.
- Engage with fellow students and participate in the JPHP community.
- Treat fellow students, faculty, and staff with respect.
Leadership and Community Engagement
JPHP encourages students to take an active role in shaping their experiences and supporting the success of others. Leadership opportunities provide practical experience in collaboration, communication, service, and personal development.
Become a Peer Mentor
After their first year, JPHP students may pursue peer mentor positions to support fellow honors students. Peer mentors help foster connections, provide encouragement, and contribute to the welcoming environment of the program.
Participate in Trailblazer Initiatives
Get involved in initiatives that encourage innovation, collaboration, and community-focused problem-solving. Students may have opportunities to develop and implement projects in partnership with faculty or staff mentors.
Engage with Your Community
Through community engagement projects and service activities, students can apply their interests and developing leadership skills to meaningful experiences beyond the classroom.
The JPHP Student Room
Location: Miguel Hall, Room 300
The JPHP room is a dedicated community space where honors students can connect, study, collaborate, and participate in program activities.
To maintain a welcoming and respectful environment for everyone, students are expected to:
- Keep the space clean and organized.
- Respect the belongings of fellow students.
- Maintain appropriate noise levels.
- Use the room and its resources responsibly.
Staying Connected
Stay informed about upcoming events, program announcements, academic opportunities, and student activities through JPHP communication platforms and social media.
Student Communication Platforms
- Moodle: Academic and course-related communications.
- JasperConnect: Program activities and student engagement.
- GroupMe: Student communication and community connections.
Follow JPHP
- Instagram: @JPHP_MU
- LinkedIn: James Patterson Honors Program
- YouTube: @JPHP_Manhattan
- TikTok: @JPHP_MU
Frequently Asked Questions
What classes do first-year JPHP students take?
First-year students participate in a signature community-engaged learning course that introduces them to the JPHP community. The course includes community engagement activities, reflective assignments, and opportunities to build relationships with fellow honors students.
Do JPHP courses count toward my degree?
Yes. JPHP coursework is integrated into existing degree requirements and does not add credits beyond those required for your degree.
What are the benefits of participating in JPHP?
Students benefit from priority course registration, mentorship, networking, leadership development, professional workshops, and exclusive program events.
Are there opportunities after my first year?
Yes. Students may participate in additional honors coursework, leadership seminars, mentoring opportunities, and industry-focused experiences. The program culminates in a senior capstone or industry-based project.
JPHP Student Handbook
The James Patterson Honors Program Student Handbook is a resource for understanding program expectations, participation requirements, student opportunities, and available support.
Students are encouraged to review the current handbook and refer to it throughout their JPHP experience.