Phi Theta Kappa was recognized in 1929 by the American Association of Community Colleges as the official honor society for junior colleges. Its purpose is to “recognize and encourage the academic achievement of two-year college students and provide opportunities for individual growth and development through honors, leadership, and service programming.”

In Spring 2010, the Beta Sigma Omicron Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society was established at HTIC. Students who earn a 3.70 grade point average and who, as students at HTIC, have contributed to the community both on and off campus are invited to join the Beta Sigma Omicron Chapter.