Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society | What Students Should Know

Sigma Theta Tau is an international honor society traditionally associated with the field of nursing. It commonly operates through campus chapters at participating colleges and universities and recognizes students who meet academic and professional criteria established by their institution and local chapter.

If you received an invitation, a helpful first step is understanding what it represents at your specific nursing program—how eligibility was determined, whether there is an active chapter, and what participation typically involves.

— Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society FAQ

Who Sigma Theta Tau Is For

Sigma Theta Tau generally serves undergraduate, graduate, and professional nursing students who meet academic eligibility criteria. Requirements and chapter activity can vary by institution and program.

How Invitations Typically Work

Invitations are commonly issued through a participating nursing school or local chapter. Students may receive invitations via faculty advisors, program administration, or official chapter outreach. Students can ask which chapter issued the invitation and what criteria were used.

Certification, Affiliation, and What That Means

Some honor societies, including Sigma Theta Tau, participate in private membership associations such as the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS). These affiliations indicate organizational membership and alignment with internal standards.

They are not government accreditation, not college or university accreditation, and do not define legitimacy or outcomes on their own.

— What Does “Certified Honor Society” Mean?
— ACHS “Certified” Member Societies

How Students Should Evaluate Fit

Students evaluating Sigma Theta Tau or any nursing honor society often consider:

— How eligibility for the invitation was determined
— Whether there is an active chapter at their institution
— What academic, research, or leadership opportunities are available locally
— How participation aligns with academic, clinical, and professional goals

— Honor Society Guides
— What Is an Honor Society?

Can Students Join More Than One Honor Society?

Yes. Many students participate in multiple honor societies or academic organizations, especially when those organizations recognize different disciplines or professional stages.

Disclaimer

This page is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not evaluate academic merit, clinical competence, institutional endorsement, or the quality or value of any organization.

Honor Society® is an independent, private organization and is not affiliated with Sigma Theta Tau or any third-party organization referenced on this page. Nothing on this page is intended to interfere with any organization’s operations or relationships; students should verify details directly and make decisions based on complete disclosures and personal goals.