Phi Theta Kappa Beta Epsilon Mu Chapter

Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society that recognizes the academic achievements of college students. Come find opportunities for leadership and service development, and lively fellowship among scholars.

With a focus on scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship, Phi Theta Kappa empowers members to become well-rounded individuals ready to make a lasting impact on the world.

PTK graduate

Member Benefits

Exclusive Scholarships: apply for more than $36 million in transfer scholarships, provided exclusively to PTK members by more than 800 senior institutions.
Explore Colleges with PTK Connect™: dive into a comprehensive database that lets you explore colleges, see what they offer in terms of scholarships, and discover other support available for transfer students.
PTK Edge™ courses: free, online and self-paced, offered exclusively to Phi Theta Kappa members.
Cutting-edge services: connect to find services, programs and resources selected especially to meet your needs. These may include letters of recommendations sent from PTK headquarters.
Membership Tokens: all members receive the prestigious Golden Key Membership Pin, the impressive Certificate of Membership and a PTK graduation tassel.
Graduation Regalia: PTK members may wear the Society's golden monogrammed Honors Stole, Honors Medallion, blue and yellow Honors Cord and gold tassel at college commencement exercises, available through purchase, contingent on college policy.

Visit the official PTK website for additional membership benefits.

Eligibility Requirements

Each semester eligible students are invited to join the Beta Epsilon Mu Chapter at South Texas College.

To be eligible for membership you must:

Be enrolled in a regionally accredited institution offering an associate degree program.
Complete at least 12 hours of coursework* that may be applied to an associate or bachelor's degree
OR,
Complete 6 hours of coursework* that may be applied to a certificate or training program.
*Does not include Developmental or Technical courses. Please review the Academic Transferable Courses list.
Have a 3.25 GPA.
Receive an invitation for membership from Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Adhere to the moral standards of the society.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Phi Theta Kappa?

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the official honor society for two-year colleges, recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) since 1929. Founded in 1918, PTK celebrates academic achievement and fosters personal growth, leadership, and service among community and technical college students.

With nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 nations and over 4.3 million students inducted, PTK provides a transformative experience, connecting its 230,000 active members to opportunities for scholarships*, leadership development and success beyond the classroom. By offering access to exclusive resources and a supportive community, PTK empowers students to excel academically and reach their full potential.

For more information visit the official Phi Theta Kappa webpage.

*Scholarship criteria may vary.
Phi Theta Kappa Membership
- How do I join?
  
  Students are invited to accept membership based on the eligibility requirements. An email with the Phi Theta Kappa website and an access code are sent to eligible members in order to complete the application process online. This email will also include general information about the honor society and some of the benefits that accompany Phi Theta Kappa.
- When can I join Phi Theta Kappa?
  
  There is an enrollment period at the beginning of each academic semester in which invitations are emailed to eligible students. At this point, students, should they decide to, are asked to accept membership and pay the respective membership fees. An induction ceremony is then held to officially welcome all new members of Phi Theta Kappa.
- Why did I receive a letter when I am not an eligible student?
  
  Even though students are pre-screened before being invited to join Phi Theta Kappa, sometimes there are discrepancies. However, an unofficial transcript will be reviewed to determine eligibility status.
- What are the fees to join Phi Theta Kappa?
  
  Students pay a one-time $80 membership fee. This includes $60 for Phi Theta Kappa International membership fee, $10 for Phi Theta Kappa Regional fees and $10 for our local chapter fees. This fee is paid when students complete the application process online.
- Can an STC Dual Enrollment student be a member of Phi Theta Kappa?
  
  Yes, any Dual Enrollment student who meets the same requirements is eligible for membership.
Participation
- How much of my time do I need to commit as a member of Phi Theta Kappa?
  
  Members are highly encouraged to participate in all of the planned functions and events at either the local, regional, and/or international level. Even though participation is voluntary, Phi Theta Kappa's mission is to provide students opportunities in fellowship, leadership, service and scholarship*. These four hallmarks will allow members to be well rounded, not to mention the opportunities that it provides for an enhanced resume full of experiences and accomplishments.
  
  *Scholarship criteria may vary.
- Can I still participate in events even if I'm unable to attend the regular scheduled meetings?
  
  Yes, members will have access to agendas, minutes and calendar of events that will be regularly posted at the Beta Epsilon Mu website. In addition, most information will also be disseminated via email.
- Does every STC campus have a chapter?
  
  All Phi Theta Kappa members attending South Texas College are part of the Beta Epsilon Mu Chapter. However, each campus has a member liaison that will facilitate communication between Beta Epsilon Mu members attending that campus and the officers.
Graduation
- What are the Phi Theta Kappa graduation regalia?
  
  All Phi Theta Kappa members have the distinction of wearing the honor society's regalia during their respective graduation ceremonies. The graduation regalia include a golden monogrammed Honors Stole, Honors Medallion, blue and yellow Honors Cord and gold tassel.
- How do I buy the graduation regalia?
  
  Phi Theta Kappa members graduating may purchase their regalia online through the official Phi Theta Kappa website. Items can be purchased together or separately through the Phi Theta Kappa Shop.
- Will my official transcript have the Phi Theta Kappa seal?
  
  At this point, transcripts do not reflect the Phi Theta Kappa seal; however, advisors will seal transcripts and diplomas upon request.
- Am I still a Phi Theta Kappa member after I graduate from South Texas College?
  
  Phi Theta Kappa offers a life-time membership. Beta Epsilon Mu members become alumni after they graduate and transfer to other universities.