Membership to Sigma Theta Tau International, the international honor society of nurses was approved in 2003. A chartering ceremony in 2004 officially recognized the new Excelsior chapter, Tau Kappa.

The Tau Kappa Chapter supports the scholarly research, leadership, and professional development of nurses who strive to improve the health of the world's people. Recent baccalaureate graduates and students who have completed at least one-half of the required nursing component of the bachelor's program and whose grade point average (GPA) is in the top third of their class are invited to join in the spring of each year. Recent master's program graduates and students who are currently enrolled in the master's capstone and have a GPA of 3.5 or greater are also invited to join in the spring of each year. These students and graduates have demonstrated scholastic achievement, academic integrity, professional leadership, and potential for achievement in the field of nursing.

Registered nurses who have earned a bachelor's degree in any field and have demonstrated leadership in the profession of nursing may join the Tau Kappa Chapter directly by contacting member services.

Tau Kappa Chapter Selection Process for 2012-13

The selection process for the 2012-13 membership year is just beginning. Criteria for selection from the currently enrolled RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing student population includes a GPA of at least 3.0, completion of 60 general education credits and at least 31 nursing credits. In addition, only those students in the top 35% of the class will be invited to join. Criteria for selection from currently enrolled RN to Master of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing students includes those who have completed the Capstone examination OR are Capstone eligible with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Graduates of either program will also be invited providing they meet the same criteria.

A list of selected candidates will be sent electronically to International Headquarters where invitations/applications will be generated and sent out via email. Please be sure you have a correct email on file at Excelsior. Correspondence will include all instructions on how to apply, payment of dues, and the date/location of the Tau Kappa Induction Ceremony to take place this July in Albany, NY.

You can expect this correspondence sometime the end of April. If you have any further questions, please contact the Chapter's counselor, Joanne Bonesteel at Excelsior College.

Tau Kappa's 2011 Induction Ceremony Video