Program of Studies

Academics

At St. Thomas Aquinas, our academic program is designed to challenge students to think deeply, explore their interests, and apply what they learn in meaningful ways. Rooted in our Catholic tradition, our courses bring together faith and reason while helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and perspective they need to understand the world around them and make a positive difference in it.

The Program of Studies offers a wide range of courses and pathways designed to meet students where they are and encourage them to grow. From foundational courses that introduce students to new areas of study to honors, AP, and other advanced offerings that allow students to pursue greater depth and challenge, our curriculum provides opportunities for every student to stretch their abilities and discover their potential.

Our dedicated faculty bring subject-area expertise, creativity, and a commitment to knowing their students well. Through thoughtful instruction, meaningful inquiry, and opportunities to apply learning beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to become confident, capable, and engaged learners.

We also recognize that every student’s learning journey is different. Our academic leveling and pacing options, along with individualized support through the Center for Academic Achievement, help students access a rigorous curriculum and receive the support they need to succeed.

At STA, education extends beyond academic achievement. We challenge students to use their knowledge and gifts in service of others, growing in faith, intellect, virtue, and service as they prepare for college, career, and a life of purpose. In keeping with our motto, Lux in Tenebris—Light in Darkness—we strive to equip students to bring light to the world around them.

COURSE OFFERINGS

For a full list and descriptions of the courses St. Thomas Aquinas offers, please see our 2026-2027 Program of Studies.

The Theology curriculum introduces students to the foundation of Catholic faith – providing an understanding of the history, theology, morality, beliefs, and practices. All Theology courses are CP level.

Full Year Course

  • Foundations of Catholicism

Semester Courses

  • Scripture I
  • Scripture II
  • Morality and the Catholic Teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas
  • Catholic Social Teaching
  • The Christian Meaning of Death and Dying
  • The Catholic Imagination: Art, Literature & Film
  • Theology & Culture: Finding God in Modern Media
  • Faith and Literature
  • Christianity and Ethics
  • World Religions
  • Living Witnesses: Saints and the Story of the Catholic Church
  • Philosophy of Human Flourishing

The English Department offers an integrated four-year program of literature and language arts study. The goal is to properly place students in the course best suited to meet their needs, ensuring academic growth and success, while challenging all students appropriately. Recommendation that a student take Honors or AP English is based on class performance during the prior year as well as on an assessment tool administered in the spring semester; the recommendation is made by the student’s current English teacher. Courses are offered at the CP, Honors, and AP levels. Available in Full Year and Semester.

Full Year Courses

  • English 9 – CP/Honors
  • English 10 – CP/Honors
  • English 11 American Literature – CP/Honors
  • AP English Language and Composition
  • AP English Literature and Composition
  • AP Seminar, Grades 11-12

Semester Courses

  • English 12: The Search for Self – CP/Honors
  • Holocaust Literature: Resistance and Survival – CP
  • Mass Media and Popular Culture – CP
  • Mystery and Suspense – CP
  • Speaking Up! Public Speaking for the 21st Century – CP
  • Writing Workshop: Finding Your Voice – Honors
  • Writing Lab – CP
  • Multicultural American Voices – CP
  • Science Fiction: The Literature of Ideas – CP
  • Women’s Voices – CP

Exploring the Fine Arts encourages students to be creative and to think outside of the box. It also aids in the development of motor skills, visual learning, collaboration, accountability and focus. Courses are available in Semester and Full Year.

Full Year Courses

  • Studio Art – Honors
  • AP 2-D Art and Design

Semester Courses

  • Introduction to Art – CP
  • 3-D Modeling and Design – CP
  • Graphic Design and Drawing – CP
  • Digital Photography – CP
  • Painting Workshop – CP
  • Pottery – CP
  • Character Design and Animation – CP
  • Drawing – CP
  • Introduction to Publications, Design, and Editing – CP

Exploring the Performing Arts encourages students to express themselves through movement, voice, and storytelling. These classes help build confidence, communication skills, creativity, and teamwork. Students also develop discipline, active listening, and stage presence.

Full Year Courses

  • Concert Band – CP

Semester Courses

  • Music Appreciation – CP
  • Concert Choir – CP
  • Music Theory – Honors
  • Fundamentals of Piano – CP
  • Fundamentals of Guitar – CP
  • Jazz Band – CP (After School)
  • Jazz Choir – CP (After School)

The Mathematics Department offers a variety of levels including CP Enriched, CP, and Honors. Advanced Placement courses are available for students who show a greater aptitude for Mathematics. Courses in the curriculum are designed to prepare students for college. All courses are Full Year.

  • Algebra I – CP Enriched
  • Algebra I – CP/Honors
  • Geometry – CP Enriched
  • Geometry – CP/Honors
  • Algebra II – CP Enriched
  • Algebra II – CP/Honors
  • Statistics – CP
  • Precalculus – CP/Honors
  • Precalculus – Honors, Summer
  • AP Calculus AB
  • AP Calculus BC/Multivariable
  • AP Statistics
  • Mathematics of Business and Personal Finance – CP

The Science Department offers a spectrum of courses that introduces students to the fundamental concepts of modern science and allows them to develop their critical thinking skills. Courses are offered at the CP, Honors, and AP levels. Available in Full Year and Semester.

Full Year Courses

  • STEM – CP/Honors
  • Biology – CP/Honors/AP
  • Chemistry – CP/Honors/AP
  • Physics – CP/Honors
  • Physics C Mechanics – AP
  • Environmental Science – AP
  • FIRST Robotics – CP

Semester Courses

  • Anatomy and Physiology – CP
  • Forensics – CP
  • Intro to Electrical Engineering and Robotics – CP
  • Environmental Studies – CP
  • STEM Seminar – CP
  • Marine Biology – CP
  • Advanced Genetics and Biotechnology – Honors

The Social Studies curriculum allows students to gain knowledge about history, people, places, events, and culture. As well as an understanding of government, economies, and social traditions. All of which helps students become informed individuals. Social Studies courses are offered at the CP, Honors, and AP levels. Available in Full Year and Semester.

Full Year Courses

  • Western Civilization – CP/Honors
  • US History – CP/Honors/AP
  • US Government and Politics – AP

Semester Courses

  • Citizenship and Government – CP/Honors
  • Economics – CP/Honors
  • Psychology – CP
  • Introduction to the Law – Honors

Studying a world language helps students not only speak and write the language, but immerse themselves in a different culture. World Language courses are offered at the CP and Honors levels. All courses are Full Year.

French

  • French I – CP
  • French II – CP
  • French III – CP/Honors
  • French IV – Honors
  • French V – Honors

Spanish

  • Spanish I – CP
  • Spanish II – CP/Honors
  • Spanish III – CP/Honors
  • Spanish IV – Honors
  • Spanish V – Honors