What if one degree could help you change the world — and understand it better, too?

Major in Honors Traditions in Critical Thought and Scholarship

What is Honors Traditions in Critical Thought and Scholarship?

The Honors Traditions in Critical Thought and Scholarship (TRACTS) major is a one-of-a-kind interdisciplinary degree in the Ogden Honors College at LSU to complement any primary major. Designed for curious, driven students who want to lead and innovate, TRACTS combines the sciences and humanities to explore big ideas and create positive change. You’ll sharpen your voice and ability to communicate, expand your worldview, and learn how to tackle complex problems through small seminars, research, and mentorship. TRACTS gives you the tools to lead in any career path.

Program Highlights
Honors Campus As one of the few honors institutions nationwide with a complete Honors Campus within the main campus, you’ll experience a bustling research intuition and closeknit community all wrapped up in one inspiring, convenient environment.
Laville Honors House Live and learn in the exclusive Honors residence halls at the heart of campus, where advising and classes take place, as well as events like research colloquiums, faculty talks, service projects, and crawfish boils.
Undergraduate Research Through the Honors Capstone Project, you’ll conduct guided research specific to your interests, culminating in a research project you can submit for publication or use as a foundation for graduate school and the workforce.
Career Connections In addition to offering study abroad opportunities, the Ogden Honors College partners with Louisiana businesses, industry, community organizations, and schools to offer you internships and employment opportunities.

What You Can Do

An LSU degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths and professional opportunities. With a strong academic foundation, real-world learning, and support from a powerful alumni network, you’ll graduate prepared for success in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re planning to work in a corporate setting, nonprofit organization, government agency, creative industry, or research lab, LSU equips you with the in-demand skills and hands-on experience employers value most.

Potential Careers

Policy Analyst
Researcher or Lab Manager
Ethics Consultant
Communications Director
Health Communications Specialist
International Affairs Analyst
Museum or Cultural Program Director
Grant Writer
Social Entrepreneur
Legislative Aide
Higher Education Administrator
Nonprofit Program Manager

Workplace Settings

Government Agencies (local to global)
Think Tanks & Research Institutes
Universities & Academic Centers
Public Health Organizations
International NGOs
Cultural Institutions & Museums
Startups & Innovation Hubs
Environmental & Sustainability Groups
Media & Publishing Companies
Foundations & Advocacy Organizations

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What Honors Traditions in Critical Thought and Scholarship Looks like

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A Day in the Life of an Ogden Honors College Student

Building Skills
Critical Research & Analysis Explore complex issues and draw conclusions through evidence collection and analysis.
Intercultural Knowledge & Competency Use your knowledge to connect ideas across cultures and disciplines to solve problems.
Adaptable Communication Build communication skills to express ideas across audiences, technologies, and genres.
Ethical Reasoning & Leadership Make thoughtful decisions, leading with empathy, integrity, and cultural awareness.
Advance your Career
Post-graduate education
LSU offers competitively ranked post-graduate programs designed to help you innovate and lead in your field. Engage in advanced coursework, contribute to impactful research, and learn from expert faculty who are solving real-world challenges across Louisiana and beyond. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, pivot into a new industry, or accelerate your career, LSU’s graduate programs open the door to a world of opportunity.
Apply Today!