What is The Center?
The Center for Advanced Studies and Research at Thousand Oaks High School is a rigorous AP Capstone program in which students develop the research, critical thinking and communication skills necessary to be successful in college and in professional endeavors. It is a specialized program within Thousand Oaks High School that supports students pursuing this course of academic exploration.
Our alumni share their experiences and the benefits of being in The Center.
The Center Story
The Center for Advanced Studies and Research is the product of the evolution of Dr. Maholtra’s research class. The College Board recognized the advanced level of work that her students were undertaking. After five years of working with the College Board, TOHS received approval to offer AP Seminar and AP Research.
Distinction
In the 2014-2015 school year, Thousand Oaks High School was selected as one of only 11 schools in California and 139 schools worldwide to offer two new AP courses, AP Seminar and AP Research
Excellence
By completing the course of study and the program requirements within The Center for Advanced Studies and Research, students will graduate with distinction and can earn the AP Capstone Certificate or the AP Capstone Diploma.
Recognition
Students who complete the program and complete the Senior Culminating Experience receive a V Stole at the Senior Awards Banquet to be worn at graduation.
A film by Ryan Hong
A Film by
Ryan Hong
2020 Center graduate, Ryan Hong, created this wonderful video interviewing his Center peers. It’s a look into The Center from the student’s perspective.
“I've realized that there are an abundant amount of problems in the world, but there is just that amount, if not more, solutions to fix them. Through The Center, I've expanded my horizons, becoming interested in what is happening throughout the world. I love how it is a class that requires you to use your brain and create your own ideas. It gives liberties to support how one wants to think versus how one is told to think.”
Kristen Wisneski - Class of 2017
The Mission
The Center’s mission is to offer unparalleled, meaningful opportunities within a rigorous and engaging course of study that inspires students to learn and grow as individuals and as part of the broader community.
Admissions
Why Apply?
The Center for Advanced Studies and Research at Thousand Oaks High School is a rigorous AP Capstone program in which students develop the research, critical thinking and communication skills necessary to be successful in college and in professional endeavors. It is a specialized program within Thousand Oaks High School that supports students pursuing this course of academic exploration.
For High School
Students receive profound, highly beneficial, inquiry-based learning experiences across disciplines.
Diverse on and off-campus learning opportunities
Experience AP Seminar and AP Research and earn the College Board's AP Capstone Diploma
Graduate with distinction through ceremony and program recognition
Team-building through group projects and events
For College
A highly rigorous program, The Center provides a unique opportunity to distinguish your student to colleges and universities.
Equipped with college-level writing, critical thinking, and research skills
Opportunities for selection to university research labs and publication authorship
Potential to earn automatic honors college admission and/or scholarships for completing the AP Capstone Diploma
Potential for college credit through AP courses and exams
Dedicated college planning assistance
For Career
The Center will expand your students world view, allowing them to recognize opportunities at the forefront of change.
Real world application of leadership, teamwork, and problem solving skills
Work with a mentor in your field of interest while investigating a project of your own design
Discover interests through diverse opportunities to research and interact with professionals in various fields
Networking with Center alumni through social platforms
Middle School Students
If you are currently enrolled Middle School or a Middle School parent, and would like more information about the The Center, use the button below.
Current Freshmen
If you are a current TOHS Freshmen and are interested in learning more about applying to The Center for your Sophomore year, your journey starts by clicking on the button below.
“Through practice in the AP Seminar class, I have developed the management and leadership skills to effectively lead an academic team that I wouldn’t otherwise receive until my college and professional work.”
Scott Price - Class of 2016
The Vision
The Center’s Vision is to engage students through original, authentic experiences that will further develop and enrich their skill set and inspire a higher level of passion and knowledge in order to be uniquely successful in their post-secondary endeavors.
By the Numbers
Class of 2023
44
Graduates
15
Co-Valedictorians
4.50
Average GPA
Cumulative
351
Graduates
117
Co-Valedictorians
4.48
Average GPA
The Inaugural Class of 2016
Our inaugural class of The Center for Advanced Studies and Research consisted of thirteen seniors.
These exceptional students went on to attend UCLA (4 students), UC Berkeley (3 students),
UC Santa Barbara (3 students), Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (1 student), and Northwestern University (2 students).
Congratulations to our incredible Center graduates!
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