Difference vs. Honors: Understanding the Difference

Key Difference – Distinction vs Honors

Distinction and honors are terms used in educational grading systems, but they have different meanings depending on the degree and education system. The main difference between the two is that distinction refers to a high score in a grading system, while honors refer to a type of degree.

What Does Distinction Mean?

Distinction can have various meanings depending on the context. Generally, it refers to a grade awarded to students with high marks, such as scoring over 90% in an exam. Many diploma and certificate courses use grading schemes like Pass, Merit, and Distinction. A Distinction is similar to an A or A+ grade. In degree level, a Distinction is awarded if a student’s overall achievement falls within the A grade. Distinction can also refer to other types of awards, such as military distinction.

What Does Honours Mean?

The term “honours degree” usually refers to a type of degree. An honours degree can have different meanings depending on the context. It is often indicated by the abbreviation “Hons,” such as “BA (Hons)” or “B.A., Hons.” In most cases, it refers to a type of undergraduate bachelor’s degree that has a higher standard of study than an ordinary bachelor’s degree and may involve a larger volume of material or coursework. For example, the honors bachelor’s degree in the United States is a special study program that differs from the bachelor’s degree with honors in the United Kingdom and many other Commonwealth countries. A bachelor’s degree with honors has a higher standard than a merit or ordinary pass. The awards in an honors degree can be listed as follows:

– First Class: Awarded to students who complete all coursework and dissertation within the A grade range.
– Second Class, First/Upper Division: Usually awarded to students who complete all coursework and dissertation with a B+ grade point average.
– Second Class, Second/Lower Division: Usually awarded to students who complete all coursework and dissertation with a grade range of B to B-.

What is the difference between Distinction and Honors?

Distinction:
– Refers to a grade awarded for high marks.
– Equivalent to A or A+.
– In a degree course, may be awarded if the student’s overall achievement falls under an A grade.

Honors:
– Can refer to an honors bachelor’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with honors.
– An honors bachelor’s degree is a degree program more advanced than a normal bachelor’s degree.
– A bachelor’s degree with honors is an award given to those who have performed well.