An education not based on textbooks

Are you in the search for a Liberal Arts college? Possibly one that is in California for those who don’t want to move out of state? Or are you looking for a private college, by any chance? Then this is the place for you!

Thomas Aquinas College is a private Roman Catholic Liberal Arts college located in Santa Paula, California, established in 1971. For more information, visit: www.thomasaquinas.edu/.

Thomas Aquinas College offers one degree program, which is the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts. The unique thing about their education is that it is not based on textbooks, but classic books and novels known as the “Great Books of the Western Tradition.” The first two years are dedicated towards the Trivium, which includes logic, rhetoric, grammar; and the Quadrivium, which includes the study of geometry, astronomy, arithmetic, and music. By the end of the four years, natural sciences, philosophy, and theology are studied. It is also important to note that in the first three years, a total of 11 essays are written, focusing on various subject areas.

Thomas Aquinas has an acceptance rate of 83%, which means that they are not as selective as other colleges or universities. Around half of the applicants had an SAT score between 1170 and 1370, as well as an ACT score between 25 and 30. An applicant’s GPA is considered a very important factor during the admission process, in addition to high school class rank and letters of recommendation. There is not a hard application deadline, but instead they have rolling admissions.

Tuition at Thomas Aquinas College is around $27,000, which is cheaper than the national average. Keep in mind that the cost of tuition and fees, as well as the cost of room and board, books and supplies, technology resources, student centers, transportation and personal expenses. Adding all of this together, the total amount would result in about $38,000 approximately. But don’t panic! Financial aid is available for students, which can come in the form of student grants, loans, and scholarships. You can also fill out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which opens every October 1, and is recommended by many experts, as every year, thousands of dollars are being unclaimed by students. Additionally, Thomas Aquinas College offers need-based scholarships which are funded by the private donations of foundations and individuals, including alumni!