GREAT BOOKS PROGRAM

Online

Join the Great Conversation…

Founded in 2000, the Great Books Program offers four years of online seminars (grades 9–12) focused on the Great Books of Western Civilization. Classes meet once a week for two hours and are led by two experienced moderators in small groups of 20 students or fewer.

The discussions follow the Socratic method, emphasizing thoughtful conversation and mutual inquiry. This classical approach helps students develop critical thinking, articulate ideas clearly, and grow in the liberal arts of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world—what the great authors have long described as the foundation of a well-examined life.

The curriculum moves chronologically: starting with Homer (Ancient Greece), then Ancient Rome, the Middle Ages, and finally Modern times. Though open to high schoolers 14 and up, students of all ages—including college students and adults—are welcome to join. Enrollment in the Angelicum Academy is not required.

Students may choose to earn dual high school and college credit, with up to 60 transferable credits available. At just $225 per credit hour, our college credit costs are 40%–85% lower than typical tuition rates. For students aiming to complete an AA or BA by 12th grade—or transition to a residential college—we offer clear, affordable pathways.

THREE TRACKS

The Great Books courses are interdisciplinary and cover material in literature, history, philosophy, political science, theology, biography, poetry, and more. All three tracks include the Great Books classes, which meet for two hours per week, and require writing assignments which vary in length by track.

High School Credits

Easier workload compared to the AA/BA track
Students from any high school or homeschool can join
Ages 14 and up

Associate Degree Track

90 credits total
48 credits from GBP
12 credits from Theology Online
30 credits from Catholic International University

Bachelor’s Degree Track

120 College Credits
48 credits from GBP
12 credits from Theology Online
60 credits from Catholic International University

FOUR YEARS

Degree Track Agreements

OUR PARTNERS

We’re proud to partner with Catholic International University (CIU) to offer accredited college degrees through our Great Books Program and Theology Online Courses. Students can earn up to 60 transferable credits and complete their AA or BA degrees while still in high school—or continue their studies on campus at CIU or other colleges.

ACE ACCREDITATION

The Great Books Program and Theology Online courses have been reviewed and approved by the American Council on Education (ACE), with up to 60 college credits recommended—48 from the Great Books Program and 12 from Theology Online. All 60 credits are fully transferable to CIU where they can be applied toward B.A. degrees.

Student Experience

Class Structure

Students in all tracks of the Great Books Program undertake a rigorous course of study comprising 120 in-depth readings and Socratic discussions over four years. Their engagement is further enriched through the completion of weekly study guides and quarterly argumentative essays, fostering critical thinking, clarity of expression, and intellectual discipline.

Great Bookies Community

YouTube video by one of our Great Books students.

YouTube video by one of our Great Books students.

The Great Books Summer Program

Discussions and Fellowship in Colorado
Summer 2026

Our much-loved Summer Program is returning in Summer 2026! We’re excited to welcome students back for a season of lively discussion, deep reading, and meaningful connection. Stay tuned for details on this cherished tradition.

Photos from GBSP 2021

Join the Great Conversation Your Way

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