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St. Thomas University offers an Advanced Standing program for students currently in or entering their final year of high school. The program will give students an opportunity to engage in university-level coursework on a part-time basis, taking a maximum of two courses per semester during the academic year or one course per month during intersession and summer session. A limited number of bursaries are available on a first come, first served basis for students in financial need. 
Small University | Big Opportunities
At STU, you will explore competing and controversial ideas in a supportive environment. We have welcomed grade 12 students looking to complete university-level coursework into our community for years.
“Taking STU courses while still in high school was a big part of the reason that I chose STU to continue my academic journey. I loved the small class size, getting to know the professor, and the beautiful campus."
- Sydney Van Wart, Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation Scholarship Recipient
“It was a great experience that helped me get a first taste of what to expect when I attend university. It also helped me clarify my interest in economics - if I would not have taken the introductory course, I probably would not be studying this discipline. Ultimately, it gave me an opportunity to take on a new challenge from which I have learned a lot and that I am still grateful for today.”
– Patrice Cammarano, BA ’22, Francis M. McLaughlin Scholarship Recipient
“Taking a university course in high school prepared me for my future university career. I took an introduction to gerontology course in my final year of high school. Now, I am majoring in gerontology and am the President of the Gerontology Society! Every decision you make opens up a world of possibilities; that is why taking the course was one of the best decisions I have made.”
- Robyn MacCara, BA ’24, President’s Scholarship Recipient 
2026-2027 Course Offerings
Courses offered in the Advanced Standing program include asynchronous, online options, meaning that students can work away at the course material at times convenient to them throughout the week, as well as in-person courses that require students to be on campus. Students accepted to the Advanced Standing program will work with an admissions counsellor to ensure they are registered in courses that meet their preferences.
Intersession Courses
- Intersession 1: May 4, 2026 - May 29, 2026
- Intersession 2: June 1, 2026 – June 26, 2026
- Intersessions 1 & 2: May 4, 2026 – June 26, 2026
Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings throughout Intersession 1 (May 2026)
ANTH 1023 A: Intro. to Biological Anthropology
An introduction to the study of humans as a biocultural species. The focus of this course is on human evolution, human variation and genetics, nonhuman primates, and the work of physical anthropologists.
Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings throughout Intersession 2 (June 2026)
PSYC 1013 A: Intro. to Psychology I
This course will introduce a variety of topics within psychology. Topics to be covered include research methods, history of psychology, brain and behaviour, sensation and perception, learning, memory, and cognition.
Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings throughout Intersessions 1 & 2 (May - June 2026)
SPAN 1006 A: Beginning Spanish
The beginner's course is designed for students with no previous knowledge of the language. It represents the basic level in the learning of Spanish. Teaching methods and texts will vary from year to year and from instructor to instructor. The aims of the course are the acquisition of (1) listening comprehension, (2) basic vocabulary suitable for everyday conversations, (3) simple grammatical structures, and (4) a knowledge of reading and writing techniques. The basic skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing) are emphasized. In addition, each instructor will introduce the students to selected elements of Hispanic Culture. In addition, students are required to attend a one-hour compulsory monitor session per week.
Summer Session Course
Course starts July 20, 2026 and ends on August 7, 2026
Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings throughout Summer Session (late July through early August 2026)
HIST 1763 A: Sport in World History
This discussion-based course explores the global impact of modern sport from c. 1850 to the present. It focuses upon the global spread of sports such as track and field, soccer, cricket, hockey, and baseball and the manner in which such sports were resisted or appropriated by communities throughout the world. Course content examines the political, social, and cultural significance of modern sport rather than the intricate details of individual athletes or teams. (formerly HIST 3763). Students who have taken HIST 3763 cannot take this course for credit.
Full Year Course
Courses start in September 2026 and end in April 2027
Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings throughout the Academic Year (September through April)
NATI 1006 A1: Introduction to Native Studies
A survey course that introduces students to the discipline of Native Studies. Its purpose is to increase the student's understanding and sensitivity towards the past and present experience of Native peoples. The course will examine precontact history; the influences of colonialism and primitive accumulation/capitalism in the postcontact era; and contemporary issues - while emphasizing a historical and materialist perspective.
First Semester Courses
Courses start in September 2026 and end in December 2026
Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings in Semester 1 (September through December)
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ANTH 1013 A: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
This is an introduction to the study of contemporary cultures and languages and to the methods of ethnographic fieldwork.
COPP 1013 B: Introduction to Communications
This course introduces students to the history and evolution of the communications profession, with particular emphasis on communications in the public policy sphere, from the pioneers who sold ideas on behalf of their clients, to the modern world of two-way communications with the public through the internet and social media tools. The course will explore how this evolution is changing the way governments, politicians, non-governmental organizations, citizens groups and corporations interact with the public.
HMRT 1003 A: Introduction to Human Rights
This course will introduce students to the study of human rights by investigating the question What are human rights? The course will proceed primarily through a number of examples and case studies. Students will also be given an overview of the basic instruments, institutions, and ideas relevant to human rights.
PSYC 1013 E: Introduction to Psychology I
This course will introduce a variety of topics within psychology. Topics to be covered include research methods, history of psychology, brain and behaviour, sensation and perception, learning, memory, and cognition.
Please note: Advanced Standing students who are able to access campus are also invited to take in-person, introductory-level (1000-level) courses. Course offerings for semester one can be accessed here.
Second Semester Course
Courses start in January 2027 and end in April 2027Online, Asynchronous Course
Offerings in Semester 2 (January through April)
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GERO 1023 A: Aging in Canada
This course examines the experiences of growing older in Canada. This includes a review of Canada's healthcare, pension systems and other social structures and policies which directly impact older adults in Canadian society.
Please note: Advanced Standing students who are able to access campus are also invited to take in-person, introductory-level (1000-level) courses. Course offerings for semester two can be accessed here.