What is the difference between IEEE and IEEE-HKN?

An IEEE Student Branch gives students a community of peers, and a connection to faculty and industry professionals who drive innovation in countless technical fields. There are typically little to no requirements for entry into the student branch.

IEEE-HKN is an honor society - you must be invited to join. Students perform community service to their Universities, Departments, peers, and the community. IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu students serve as role models to others, always demonstrating our highest ideals. They often develop programs for others; the focus is on being of service to others, developing skills, and commitment to the profession.

Does CSUN have an IEEE Student Branch and do I need to be a member to be invited to IEEE-HKN?

We do have an IEEE Student Branch! You do not need to be a current member of IEEE or the student branch to be invited to Eta Kappa Nu. The initial invitation is based on your academic standing. If you feel you should be invited and have not been, you can always reach out to leadership in the Discord channel and we can verify for you on an individual basis whether you qualify.

Where does the ‘H’ in HKN come from if it’s ‘Eta’ Kappa Nu?

A question we get a lot - here’s the answer:

The Greek name for amber is “elektron.” Written using early forms of the Greek letters we obtain:

Η Λ Ε Κ Τ Ρ Ο Ν

Eta Lambda Epsilon Kappa Tau Rho Omicron Nu

From this word the English language derives the word "electricity.” From this name we have further derived the words electron and electronic. And from this name our organization derives its name. We use the first, the fourth, and the last letters, namely,

Eta Kappa Nu

H K N