Thomas Aquinas College

What is the accreditation of Thomas Aquinas College?

Thomas Aquinas College holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission. This accreditation affirms that the institution meets rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness in higher education. For prospective students, this means that the college's academic programs, governance, and student support services have been reviewed and meet the criteria expected of accredited universities in the region.

What are the admission requirements at Thomas Aquinas College?

Thomas Aquinas College requires applicants to have completed a high school diploma or its equivalent, specifically the General Educational Development (GED). Prospective students must submit their secondary school records along with a demonstrated secondary school GPA, underscoring the college's emphasis on academic performance. Admission tests are also mandatory, although specific test score criteria are not publicly detailed beyond the general requirement.

Recommendations from educators or other qualified individuals form part of the application, aiding the admissions committee in evaluating candidates' character and readiness. While the college accepts dual credit courses, it does not grant credit for Advanced Placement (AP) exams or other types of credit transfer.

Applicants are not required to lease or own a computer as part of the admission criteria. The institution does not operate an open admission policy, indicating selectivity in choosing students.

Exam performance statistics reflect that 46% of enrolled students meet the required SAT scores, with an average composite SAT score of 1275, positioning them in the top 20% nationally. The mean SAT math and writing scores are 610 and 665 respectively; the math score ranks in the top 35%, while the writing score is in the top 15% nationally. On the ACT, 13% of enrolled students achieve the required benchmarks, with an average composite score of 28, placing them in the top 25% of test takers.

The college had a total of 263 applicants, which is considered a low applicant pool nationally, with an acceptance rate of approximately 79%, reflecting moderate selectivity. Both male and female applicant numbers are low, with female applicants slightly outnumbering males. Enrolled students total 143, a number also seen as low by national standards.

What are the application fees and waivers at Thomas Aquinas College?

Thomas Aquinas College requires prospective students to submit an application fee as part of their admissions process. The fee is set to cover administrative costs related to application review and processing. For students who demonstrate financial need, the college offers fee waivers to ensure the application requirement does not pose a barrier to enrollment consideration.

The availability of fee waivers at Thomas Aquinas College is intended to promote equitable access, particularly for applicants from lower-income backgrounds or those facing economic hardship. Students seeking a waiver typically must provide documentation or meet specific criteria outlined by the admissions office to qualify.

By providing these waivers, Thomas Aquinas College aims to support a diverse applicant pool while maintaining the integrity and thoroughness of its admissions evaluation process.

What types of ROTC programs are available at Thomas Aquinas College?

Thomas Aquinas College offers an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with the opportunity to participate directly in the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program. This on-site presence allows students to engage in military training and leadership development activities as part of their college experience without needing to attend another institution for ROTC coursework or drills.

What are the requirements for transfer students at Thomas Aquinas College?

Thomas Aquinas College does not accept transfer credits from other institutions, which is a significant consideration for prospective transfer students. No information is provided regarding the acceptance of credit examinations such as CLEP or DANTES, nor is there available data on the possibility of transferring for any particular term. This suggests that students interested in transferring should prepare for enrollment as new students without the benefit of previously earned college credits being counted toward their degree at the college.

What types of study abroad programs are available at Thomas Aquinas College?

Thomas Aquinas College offers a distinctive study abroad experience structured around its Great Books curriculum, emphasizing classical education and philosophy. The college provides semester-long programs that immerse students in culturally and historically significant locations, allowing a direct engagement with the foundational texts and traditions studied on campus.

These programs include opportunities to study in cities with rich intellectual and artistic heritage, where students attend seminars, visit museums, and explore historic sites related to their coursework. The study abroad experience is designed to deepen students' understanding of the material by placing their academic studies within the broader context of Western civilization's development.

The college maintains a focused approach to study abroad, prioritizing quality and philosophical relevance over quantity or a broad range of destinations. This focus ensures that students gain a cohesive and integrated educational experience that complements their on-campus studies.