[Major revision–posted 10/27/23 (replaces 8/23/22 edition)]
[PDF Version]

 

Operating Policy and Procedure

OP 30.08: Honorary Degrees

DATE: October 27, 2023

PURPOSE: The purpose of this Operating Policy/Procedure (OP) is to ensure understanding and a standardized approach regarding honorary degrees.

REVIEW: This OP will be reviewed every two years after publication by the Vice Provost for Academic Innovation and Student Success with substantive revisions presented to the Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs by June 30.

POLICY/PROCEDURE

The following policy on honorary degrees has been adopted by the Board of Regents (see Section 12.04, Regents' Rules, for detailed procedures).

1.  Honorary degrees conferred by Texas Tech University must be recommended by the President to the Chancellor and authorized by the Board of Regents.

2.  Honorary degrees may be conferred for public service, scholarship, or other contributions in the public interest.

3.   Any such honorary degree conferred shall be distinguishable from earned degrees. Below is an approved list of degrees to choose from.

• Doctor of Social Science (Soc.Sc.D.) – For distinction, usually in academic life, in the social sciences.
• Doctor of Science (Sc.D.) – For distinction in any field of science.
• Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) – For distinction in scholarly contributions to the humanities or contributions to the general welfare in any number of fields.
• Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) – For government and public service or for preeminence in any field.
• Other – If a different degree is appropriate or the degree is posthumous, explain in the nomination packet.

4.  Nominations for honorary degrees may be made by faculty, staff, or members of the Board of Regents.

5.  No person actively associated with the TTU System at the time of the award will be considered for an honorary degree.

6.  Honorary degrees will be awarded only at commencement exercises, unless otherwise approved by the President.

7.  Nominations will be evaluated by a standing committee appointed by the President, with administrative, faculty, and student representation, and recommendations will be made to the President.

Nomination packets will be accepted throughout the year. The committee will meet in September and April to review nominations and make recommendations to the President.

8.  The Chancellor will inform the board of nominations at least one month prior to the board meeting when candidates are scheduled to be considered for approval.

 

Attachment A: Nomination Form

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