Advanced Standing Program

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.  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 

2025-2026 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.

First Semester

• Courses start September 3, 2025 and end December 9, 2025.
• Exams take place from December 11 through December 18, 2025.

Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings in Semester 1 (September to December)

COPP 1013: 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.

GERO 1023: 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.

NATI 1006: 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. Please note that this is a full-year course, meaning students must be registered in it and complete coursework for it throughout both the fall and winter semesters in order to receive credit.

PHIL 1013: What is Philosophy? (Historical Introduction I)
To do philosophy is to reflect critically on our underlying beliefs (e.g., about reality, knowledge, freedom, responsibility) and to modify whatever doesn't stand up to scrutiny.  Whether we realize it or not, the very way we think is shaped by past thinkers -- which is why studying philosophy's history is a crucial part of doing philosophy.  In this course, we will focus on Ancient and Medieval thinkers as we strive to evaluate our views critically. 

PSYC 1013: 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

• Courses start January 6, 2026  and end April 13, 2026.
• Exams take place from April 15, 2026  through April 23, 2026.

Online, Asynchronous Course Offerings in Semester 2 (January to April)

ANTH 1013: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology

This is an introduction to the study of contemporary cultures and languages and to the methods of ethnographic fieldwork.

ECON 1013: Introduction to Economics (Micro)

This course examines the behaviour of consumers and producers in a market economy. Among the issues discussed will be environmental protection, wealth and poverty, and the extent of corporate power.

HMRT 1003: Introduction to Human Rights

This course introduces 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.

PHIL 1023: What is Philosophy? (Historical Introduction II)

To do philosophy is to reflect critically on our underlying beliefs (e.g., about reality, knowledge, freedom, responsibility) and to modify whatever doesn't stand up to scrutiny. Whether we realize it or not, the very way we think is shaped by past thinkers -- which is why studying philosophy's history is a crucial part of doing philosophy.  In this course, we will focus on Modern and Contemporary thinkers as we strive to evaluate our views critically.  This course has no prerequisite.

PSYC 1023: Introduction to Psychology II

This course introduces a variety of topics within psychology. Topics to be covered include research methods, developmental psychology, intelligence and creativity, personality, abnormal behaviour and therapy, social psychology, and applied topics. This course has no prerequisite.

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.

Application Process 

To be considered for admission to the program, students must submit:

• an application for admission at STU.ca/applynow as non-degree, part-time students. Students are asked to note their intention to participate in the Advanced Standing program in their application for admission;
• a non-refundable $40 CAD application fee;
• a high school transcript;
• a letter of support from their high school; this can be provided by a guidance counsellor, teacher, or principal. 

Students must apply and submit supporting documents by August 31, 2025 for first semester courses and by December 1, 2025 for second semester courses.

Registration Process 

Admitted students will be able to register on a first-come, first-served basis as part-time students in designated second-semester courses with the assistance of an admissions team member. 
 
Prior to the start of classes students will participate in an orientation meeting to ensure they well-informed and well-equipped for success in their studies.  
 
Payment will be due by September 12, 2025 for first semester courses and by January 16, 2026 for second semester courses.
 
Fees:  The cost (per three credit hour course) is $864 for the 2024-2025 academic year. Fees for the 2025-2026 academic year will be announced in May. Please note that depending on the course taken, there may be additional materials (e.g. textbooks, course supplies) and associated costs for which the student is responsible.  Additional information about funding post-secondary education can be found here. 
 
Please note: A limited number of bursaries are available for students in financial need.  If you are interested in the program, but require support to pursue this opportunity, please contact admissions@stu.ca.

Admission Criteria 

Applicants will be required to meet the following minimum requirements for admission to the Advanced Standing program at St. Thomas University:  

• Be currently enrolled in the final year of a high school program of study;  
• Have an 80% or higher on a grade 11-level, academic English course (or equivalent);  
• Have an 80% or higher on a grade 11-level, academic history or social studies course.  

When final grades are not available for these courses at time of application, the decision will be made by the Director of Admissions based on the applicant’s overall academic record. Fulfilling these minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as space in the program is limited.  

Notification of Admission  

Candidates are notified of any supporting documents which may be missing through their applicant portal. 
 
Normally, Advanced Standing candidates will be advised of their admission status within 3-5 business days. 
 
All candidates admitted to the Advanced Standing program are required to electronically confirm acceptance of their offer on their applicant portal as confirmation of their acceptance of the admission offer. 
 
Successful candidates are referred to the Advanced Standing program coordinator upon notification of their acceptance for information pertaining to orientation and course registration. 

Support for Student Success 

Before the start of the semester, a tailored, online orientation program will be made available for Advanced Standing students, in addition to one-on-one appointments, to ensure students are informed and well-equipped for success.  Throughout the semester, including once before the deadline to add courses and once before the deadline to drop courses without penalty, the administering admissions team member will conduct outreach to Advanced Standing program participants.  

Learn More: Contact Admissions 

Email: admissions@stu.ca  
Phone: 506-452-0532 
Toll-free: 1-877-788-4443