Thomas More Institute (Institut Thomas More)

The Thomas More Institute (Institut Thomas More) is a Canadian nonprofit, secular academic institution based in Montreal, Quebec, dedicated to adult education in the liberal arts. Established in 1945, the Institute offers accessible university-level discussion courses and programs designed to foster lifelong learning for adults of all ages. It operates under the Business Registration Number 129926036RR0001 as a registered charity in Canada.

History

Founded shortly after World War II by a group of young intellectuals including Charlotte Tansey, Martin O'Hara, Stan Machnik, and Veronica Smyth, Thomas More Institute was created to provide opportunities for liberal arts education and lifelong learning outside the traditional university framework. Initially affiliated with the Université de Montréal, it later became affiliated with Bishop's University to jointly deliver Bachelor of Arts degrees.

The Institute has maintained a commitment to inclusive and accessible education for adults, providing courses not just on campus but also through outreach initiatives such as its Seniors Outreach Program, which brings discussion courses directly to seniors' residences and community centres in the Greater Montreal area.

Educational Philosophy

Thomas More Institute employs the Socratic Method to promote shared inquiry and open-ended discussions within small, diverse groups. This cooperative learning approach emphasizes active participation and respectful listening rather than competition, encouraging a collaborative process of intellectual exploration. The curriculum spans a broad range of topics within the liberal arts and humanities, nurturing curiosity, creativity, openness, and community among its learners.

Programs and Services

• Degree and Certificate Programs: The Institute offers a Bachelor of Arts degree program in partnership with Bishop's University, alongside a Comprehensive Certificate program for learners seeking structured study in the liberal arts.

• Individual Courses: Students may also enroll in individual courses without pursuing a full program, allowing for flexible engagement with subjects of personal interest.

• Seniors Outreach Program: An 18-week discussion course tailored to senior learners, facilitated by volunteers trained in Thomas More Institute’s discussion methodology, aimed at fostering socialization and intellectual reflection.

• Library Resources: The Institute maintains a curated library collection of over 6,000 titles across the liberal arts and humanities fields, freely accessible to students and the wider community for study and personal enrichment.

Community and Impact

Thomas More Institute attracts adult learners ranging from their twenties to nonagenarians, reflecting its broad commitment to lifelong learning. Annually, the Institute offers 35-40 new courses with over 400 registrations, contributing significantly to adult education in Quebec. Its collaborative learning environment supports intellectual growth and community building amongst diverse participants.

Status and Recognition

Thomas More Institute is recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charity, compliant with federal charitable requirements. It continues to uphold its mission of fostering adult education through innovative and accessible liberal arts programs.

Note: This article is based on information available up to 2025 and reflects the Thomas More Institute’s mission, programs, and history as a leading institution for adult liberal arts education in Canada.