COURSE CURRICULUM

Great Books at St. Thomas University is designed to provide students with a structured exploration of influential texts and ideas across literature, philosophy, history, and law. To complete the major, students must fulfill a total of 36 credit hours organized into thematic study levels across three academic years. In the second year, students complete 12 credit hours, including GRBK 2006 and one additional 2000-level Great Books course, which introduce foundational themes and approaches to critical reading and discussion of major texts. In the third year, students take 12 credit hours of upper-level courses such as GRBK 3106, 3306, 3406, 3506, or 3606, which focus on advanced analysis of key works and deeper engagement with themes like justice, human nature, and society. In the fourth year, students complete another 12 credit hours of upper-level Great Books courses from the same advanced course options, allowing for continued specialization and intellectual development. This structure ensures a progressive learning experience that builds from foundational understanding to advanced critical interpretation. Throughout the program, students develop strong skills in analytical thinking, reading comprehension, writing, and argumentation. Overall, the Great Books major prepares students for careers in law, education, public policy, writing, and other fields requiring strong intellectual and communication skills.