The First-Year Aquinas Advantage at St. Thomas

For first-year students, the Aquinas Programme is an innovative approach to learning that combines three academic disciplines in a small-class setting where seminars, team teaching, and interdisciplinary approaches foster a high level of literacy and critical thinking.

• If you like to read and write and enjoy discussions,
• If you are interested in ideas and strive for deeper meaning,
• If your goals for university include greater awareness and understanding,

…then you’ll want to take advantage of the Aquinas Programme.

As students engage in the Aquinas curriculum, they broaden their horizons and hone their critical skills. While providing required first-year credits, Aquinas thoroughly introduces academic disciplines and opens areas for exploration and discovery. Aquinas challenges and inspires – it is an ideal way to begin a rewarding university education.

How Aquinas Works for You

First-year students typically take five courses in five academic subjects. In Aquinas, three of these courses are organized into one section with a common theme and the same group of students and professors, an intellectual home base from which to explore. Enrolment is purposely limited to create a close-knit community of learners.

• You’ll learn to organize and evaluate ideas, build understanding and express your opinion.
• You’ll become aware of differing and conflicting perspectives.
• You’ll quickly develop university-calibre skills in reading and writing as

… your ability to think for yourself matures.

First-year students may register for the Aquinas Programme as part of the first-year registration process.  For further information, please see Course Registration for First-Year Students.