Course
Descriptions

Calling all aspiring thespians! In this course, you’ll develop skills in improvisation, character development, voice, movement, and scene work while building confidence and learning how to collaborate with others. Through theater games, exercises, and short performances, you’ll have fun experimenting with characters and discovering the art of acting.

Advanced Study in Mathematics is an individualized yet collaborative opportunity to build your skills and prepare to excel at the next level of math, as you work with an experienced team of teachers to identify your individual areas for mathematical growth and improve on those skills. This course is appropriate for students preparing for courses in Algebra 2, Precalculus, or Calculus during the upcoming school year, including those hoping to get a headstart with the AP Calculus curriculum (or equivalent level). You will get a preview of the majority of content in your next math course, solidify skills from the previous year, and build your mathematical confidence as you dive deeply into algebraic and calculus-based problems.

This class reviews key pre-algebra concepts and dives into solutions of equations and inequalities, graphs of linear equations, operations on polynomials, and more. You will engage with theoretical lessons, practice exercises, and problem-solving activities in order to build a solid understanding of algebraic concepts. You will unravel the mysteries of mathematical concepts, including solving quadratic equations through factoring and the quadratic formula. By the end of the course, you will be ready to succeed in Algebra I in the coming academic year.

Whether you are picking up a basketball for the first time or looking to sharpen your existing skills, this afternoon elective is for you. You’ll build foundational skills in dribbling, passing, shooting, defense, and teamwork through a combination of instruction, skill-building activities, and game play. This elective emphasizes participation, sportsmanship, and having fun while developing confidence on the court. You’ll also play real games against other summer programs.

Explore the ethical questions at the intersection of biology, medicine, and technology. Through case studies, discussions, debates, and current scientific issues, you’ll examine topics such as genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, organ donation, reproductive technologies, medical research, and end-of-life care. You will apply ethical frameworks, evaluate evidence, consider diverse perspectives, and develop thoughtful, well-supported positions on complex issues. Labs will help you explore a variety of applications before continuing the examination through literature, media, and research. You will also have the opportunity to research and present a topic of your choice.

Seeking the key to being accepted and thriving at an independent school? In this course, you will develop strategies to get the most out of SSAT practice sessions, meet with veteran independent school admission counselors, and learn how to write effective personal essays and prepare for interviews. You will work with an experienced learning-skills coach to strengthen your note-taking, reading, and time-management skills. You will also hone your writing and speaking skills, helping you communicate with clarity and confidence as you take your high school application to the next level.

Get creative with clay! You’ll learn the hand-building techniques of pinching, coiling, and slab building as well as how to throw simple functional pottery, such as cups and bowls, on the pottery wheel. In addition to learning about form, space, texture, and function, you will be introduced to alternative firing techniques and options for surface decoration.

Get involved in the community! In this elective, you’ll learn about local and global needs while working with nearby support and service organizations. Discussions, fundraising efforts, and other activities will focus on issues such as homelessness and housing, food insecurity, healthcare, education, and children’s welfare. You’ll deepen your understanding of the value of community and the importance of helping others. Throughout the program, you’ll get hands-on here on campus and in the broader western Massachusetts community.

Roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of classic culinary favorites! In this introductory cooking course, you’ll explore the science and art behind preparing delicious entrées. From mastering safe knife skills to building confidence in the kitchen, you’ll learn foundational cooking techniques while experimenting with fresh ingredients and classic flavors. Each session will focus on a new recipe, offering a chance to learn the basics of seasoning, sautéing, and plating with style. You’ll also discover the secrets to crafting timeless sweet treats! With a focus on technique and creativity, you’ll gain the confidence to make mouthwatering desserts that not only taste amazing but look Instagram-worthy, too!

How does the American criminal justice system function? How does discrimination play a role in the system? This introductory course will provide a broad overview of the criminal justice system, including its history, structure, and processes. You will discuss issues such as racial profiling, privacy rights in the time of AI, mass incarceration, speed of trial, cruel and unusual punishment, and more, while examining the roles of various agencies that seek to maintain public order. Class discussions will center on recent cases and issues, including policy brutality, the death penalty, and sexual assault on college campuses.

This course focuses on world and local issues that affect our everyday lives, such as economics, government and conflict. We'll use newspapers, online media, cartoons, and newscasts to support class discussion. Through group projects, presentations, and work with primary source materials and opinion pieces, you’ll better understand the world around you. You’ll also bring in relevant stories to present and discuss with the class.

Students of all experience levels are invited to explore movement, rhythm, and self-expression in a fun and supportive environment. You will learn foundational dance techniques, choreography, and performance skills while developing coordination, musicality, confidence, and creativity through a variety of styles, activities, and combinations. The course culminates with an end-of-summer showcase performance.

Dive into the art of photography and explore digital skills to bring your creative vision to life! You’ll learn camera fundamentals, from shutter speed to aperture and depth of field; get behind the lens to capture landscapes, portraits, close-ups, and even sports action; And experiment with digital editing techniques. If you’re passionate about visual storytelling, social media, or the arts, this course will equip you with skills for high school projects, college portfolios, and beyond. It’s also a fun opportunity to capture your experience at NMH Summer.

Express your creativity and capture the world around you in bright colors — or in black and white. This course is tailored to your individual interests and artistic abilities and is an opportunity to hone your skills in the visual arts media of drawing and painting, whatever your level of experience. You’ll learn or review fundamentals while receiving constructive feedback and encouragement.

Our English-Language Immersion (ELI) program is the perfect opportunity for international students to enhance their written and conversational English skills while experiencing life at a premier American boarding school. Through engaging classes, you’ll explore academic writing, creative expression, and oral comprehension, all while diving into classic and modern literature. But learning doesn’t stop in the classroom! You’ll join afternoon activities such as art and sports with non-ELI students, making friends and building connections across cultures. Beyond campus, you’ll enjoy weekly excursions that bring American culture to life—whether you’re visiting world-class museums, savoring meals at classic diners, or exploring the historic sites such as the streets of Salem, Massachusetts. Each experience is designed to immerse you in the language and spirit of the U.S. At NMH Summer ELI, you’ll not only sharpen your English skills but also gain confidence, independence, and a lifetime of memories. Whether you’re preparing for academic success or simply seeking a vibrant summer adventure, this program promises an unforgettable blend of learning, exploration, and fun.

Explore the living systems, landscapes, and waterways that define New England’s natural environment. In this two-week experiential fellowship, NMH’s expansive campus and the nearby Connecticut River Valley will become your laboratory as you study local ecology, analyzing soil and species biodiversity while learning how ecosystems function and connect. You will develop core skills in observation, data collection, and environmental analysis through fieldwork and collaboration. We’ll pay particular attention to the effects of humans on the natural environment and ways in which we can work to mitigate those effects in local waterways.

This self-paced, teacher-guided, hands-on math course is designed to meet you where you are and help you conquer essential math concepts with confidence. You’ll strengthen your skills through -solving, teamwork, and practical applications. You’ll explore key areas in math, ranging from algebraic thinking and geometry to data analysis and probability, while building the competence and critical-thinking and collaborative skills necessary for future STEM pursuits. This is a perfect course for students enrolled in English-Language Immersion or morning enrichment classes who want to stay sharp and progress in math in a supportive, fun environment.

Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways people communicate and understand the world around them, and 20th- and 21st-century films have played a major role in shaping how audiences view American society. From Hollywood blockbusters to independent films, American movies reflect the values, conflicts, experiences, and changing perspectives of people and communities and can influence public attitudes, challenge social norms, preserve cultural history, and shape the way audiences understand issues both within the United States and around the world. By examining American films and embarking on field trips to local cinemas, you will develop important skills in media and cultural literacy, critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. These skills not only deepen your understanding of American cinema and culture but also prepare you to critically evaluate the media and information you encounter in everyday life.

Examine how storytelling in literature and film often challenges us to confront difficult questions about right and wrong, justice, responsibility, and human nature. Explore how writers and filmmakers use characters, conflicts, and moral dilemmas to examine the choices people make when faced with difficult circumstances. What makes an action right or wrong? Are good intentions enough to justify harmful choices? How do our values, experiences, and circumstances influence the decisions we make? You will view and analyze films alongside literary works, looking at how different forms of storytelling present ethical conflicts and shape our understanding of complex characters. Through discussion, writing, critical analysis, and field trips to local cinemas, you will develop skills in media literacy, ethical reasoning, communication, and critical thinking while gaining a deeper understanding of how stories can challenge our beliefs and encourage us to see difficult issues from multiple perspectives.

Gain the practical knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions throughout your life. Beginning with financial goal-setting, you will explore how personal values, consumer behavior, economic conditions, and risk influence financial choices. Through discussions, real-world examples, and practical exercises, you will understand credit, interest rates, inflation, the value of money, investing, stock trading, bonds, and major financial decisions such as purchasing a home or automobile. The course emphasizes both short-term financial decision-making and long-term financial security and includes a class trip to Boston.

This personal finance course builds on foundational financial concepts by focusing on budgeting strategies, spending plans, financial risk management, and investment decision-making. You will learn how to develop effective spending plans, understand how broader economic conditions can affect your personal finances, and use financial tools and strategies to manage risk and build long-term financial security. You will also be introduced to the relationships among economic cycles, monetary policy, leverage, and investment markets. Through practical examples and real-world applications, you’ll explore investment strategies, mutual funds and stock portfolio options, alternative trading markets, and the role of insurance in protecting personal wealth. We’ll also visit Hartford, Connecticut, the insurance capital of the world.

Uncover the science behind solving mysteries! Step into the role of a crime scene investigator and explore the fascinating world where science meets detective work. In this engaging two-week course, you’ll collect, process, and analyze evidence using techniques from the field of forensic science. Through hands-on labs and projects, you will experiment with fingerprinting, document and ballistics analysis, and the scientific principles that make crime-solving possible. No prior experience in biology or chemistry is required — just curiosity and a sharp eye for detail. You’ll dive into topics like DNA testing, toxicology, hair and fiber analysis, and materials identification, gaining an appreciation for the precision and teamwork that define modern investigations. By the end, you will have sharpened your observation and critical-thinking skills.

In this course, you will explore the intricacies of shapes and spatial relationships with clarity and precision. Prepare for an intellectual expedition where deductive and inductive reasoning serve as your trusty guides. Explore triangles, polygons, parallel lines, and circles, unlocking the secrets of congruence, similarity, and the three-dimensional wonders of solids. This for-credit course is a roadmap to understanding the geometry that shapes our world and a gateway to deeper mathematical exploration. You will master the art of logical reasoning as you prepare for the next level in your math curriculum.

Sharpen your swing and master your mindset on the scenic greens of western Massachusetts’ Connecticut River Valley. You’ll strengthen your fundamentals, improve your short and long games, and enjoy the challenge and camaraderie of golf. You’ll practice and play at a local nine-hole club, visit nearby courses, and train using NMH’s on-campus golf simulator. Golf develops focus, patience, and integrity, skills that carry far beyond the fairway.

Step into the shoes of a global diplomat in this hands-on, intensive course. Through simulations, crisis scenarios, and workshops, you will develop essential skills in debate, negotiation, and public speaking. You’ll hone your persuasive powers on high-stakes U.N. bodies such as the Security Council and the Economic and Social Council, while tackling pressing global issues such as climate change, artificial intelligence, nuclear weapons, and human migration. With the guidance of NMH’s global alumni network and local organizations, you will gain insights into international relations, conflict mediation, and brokering agreements under pressure. Whether you’re preparing for your next Model U.N. conference or aiming for a future in global diplomacy, this course will sharpen your leadership and critical-thinking skills. You’lll also have the opportunity to travel to the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Examine historical and contemporary conflicts through political, strategic, ethical, and humanitarian perspectives. Topics will include theories of war, deterrence, escalation, alliances, civil and interstate conflict, the ethics of warfare, diplomacy, peace negotiations, and post-conflict reconstruction. You will also consider the difficult choices leaders face when the pursuit of national security comes into conflict with moral principles or humanitarian concerns. This course will help you think critically about competing perspectives and recognize that war and peace rarely have simple explanations or solutions. Through case studies, simulations, debates, and local field trips, you will emerge from the class ready to analyze conflicts and evaluate competing strategies for preventing, conducting, and ending war.

How do we write a simple program? How do we talk to the computer? In this exciting technological adventure, you will explore the basics of programming with dynamic languages like Python and Java and dive into the fascinating world of software creation. You will develop computational thinking skills; learn programming fundamentals such as variables, conditionals, loops, functions, and debugging; and create your own digital projects. We will also explore how the internet, artificial intelligence, and technology as a whole shape our world. You will investigate questions such as how Siri understands our questions or how chatGPT creates texts, use Python to apply models to data, and engage in friendly challenges as you compete to build the best possible models. No prior experience is required.

This two-week ice-skating elective is open to students of all skill levels, including beginners with little or no skating experience. You will learn and practice basic skating skills such as balance, stopping, turning, and forward and backward movement while building confidence and comfort on the ice. Through guided instruction, practice, and fun activities, you’ll develop your skills while enjoying an active and supportive introduction to ice-skating.

An engaging introduction to the French language and the cultures of French-speaking communities around the world. You will learn useful everyday vocabulary and phrases while practicing basic speaking, listening, reading, and cultural skills. Through interactive activities, games, conversations, and real-world scenarios, you’ll build confidence using French and gain a foundation for continued language learning.

An engaging introduction to the Spanish language and the cultures of Spanish-speaking communities around the world. You will learn useful everyday vocabulary and phrases while practicing basic speaking, listening, reading, and cultural skills. Through interactive activities, games, conversations, and real-world scenarios, you’ll build confidence using Spanish and gain a foundation for continued language learning.

Navigate the great outdoors, conquering new heights as you rock climb, canoe or raft New England rivers, or mountain bike through forests and woodland trails. A partnership with local outdoor experts and Wild Med Adventures, LEAD will plunge you into nature, teaching you hands-on wilderness survival skills and first aid. From crafting shelters and foraging for edible plants to mastering the art of fire-making, stone-tool crafting, and wood carving, you'll emerge not just as an adventurer but as a more experienced, resilient leader with the confidence and tools to survive and thrive in nature and beyond.

Bring your laptop and your curiosity and explore the limitless possibilities of hands-on design in our dynamic Makerspace course in the cutting-edge studio in NMH’s Gilder Center. You’ll explore design-thinking and fabrication, combining analog and digital techniques in a safe, collaborative, and fun environment that celebrates risk-taking and emphasizes support. Our “high-tech to no-tech” approach incorporates a wide range of materials and tools, allowing us to meet you where you are as you develop competency and confidence. You’ll dive into projects in drawing, 3-D modeling and printing, laser-cutting, woodworking, small-motor robotics, and digital design using a Glowforge laser cutter.

Discover the world of drone technology and take your photography and videography skills to new heights in this high-flying course! You’ll dive into the science of flight as you learn how to operate unmanned aircraft systems, with a special focus on mastering the DJI Mini 4K drone. From understanding federal and local regulations to ensuring safe flying practices, this course covers all the essentials for responsible drone piloting. You’ll also explore the art of capturing stunning aerial footage, developing skills that are both fun and future-focused. Whether you’re passionate about STEM, aviation, or creative media, this course offers both technical and artistic exploration.

As the old adage goes: “Those who tell stories will rule the world.” This course pushes beyond borders by exploring short stories from all around the globe. We’ll examine forms, styles, and themes in stories from different cultures, time periods, and literary movements while diving deep into the mechanics of storytelling and the elements of plot, character, setting, and symbolism. You will also write your own short stories, learning the components that comprise a story and how setting, characters, and plot work together.

Learn about the diverse world of microbes, the vast effect tiny organisms have on our world, and the complexities of these supposedly “simpler” life forms. Through research, projects, presentations, and laboratory work, you will develop skills such as pipetting, site sampling, and identifying microbial life while also learning how to interpret scientific literature. Topics will include microbes in ecology (soil and water sampling), the human microbiome, microbes that cause disease, microbes in food and beverage production, and the immune system.

This class lays the foundation for Algebra and beyond. You will focus on key mathematical concepts such as integers, fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions, and basic algebraic expressions. Through theoretical lessons, practice exercises, and problem-solving activities, you will build a solid understanding of pre-algebra concepts. You will learn to work with variables, solve simple equations, and understand the principles of the coordinate plane. The course also introduces basic geometry concepts and explores the relationships among shapes, areas, and volumes. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, mathematical reasoning, and applying concepts to real-world situations. By the end of the course, you will be prepared to advance to Algebra I with a strong foundation in essential pre-algebra skills.

Love animals and want to make a difference in their health and well-being? In this course, you’ll explore the science and art of animal care and the path to veterinary medicine. Through hands-on labs and case studies, you’ll learn about animal anatomy, physiology, and disease while gaining foundational knowledge in diagnostics, behavior, and care. On field trips to local farms, animal shelters, and veterinary practices, you will get behind-the-scenes looks at veterinary work and professionals. You will leave with a strong understanding of the skills and mindset needed for success in veterinary studies and animal science, along with hands-on experience and an empathy-driven perspective.

How does the human mind work, and what drives the way we think, feel, and act? In this engaging introduction to psychology, you will explore the fundamentals of human behavior and the science behind topics such as personality, motivation, and human growth from conception through old age. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and small-group experiments, you will examine topics like conformity, memory, cognitive bias, and social influence, while testing your own powers of observation and analysis. You will apply psychological principles to real-world scenarios, from designing simple experiments to exploring the psychology of teamwork and leadership. You will also meet practitioners in the field to learn about career paths such as counseling, forensic psychology, education, and behavioral research. Whether you are fascinated by the causes and treatments of mental disorders or hope to explore how people make choices, this course will sharpen your understanding of yourself and others — valuable tools for college, career, and life.

Take your understanding of psychology to the next level with an in-depth exploration of the brain and nervous system. In this advanced course, you will learn how neurons communicate, how our senses process the world, and how brain structure affects behavior, learning, and memory, through lab work, projects, and interactive models. You will also meet neuroscientists and psychology professionals who will share insights into emerging research and careers in medicine, cognitive science, and mental health. Hands-on projects and experiments will help you connect theory to practice, from mapping the brain to studying the effects of stress, sleep, and technology on cognition. Whether taken as a stand-alone course or as a continuation of Social, Developmental, and Abnormal, this course will expand your understanding of what it means to think, feel, and be human and prepare you for future study in neuroscience, psychology, and the life sciences.

Overcome stage fright forever and prepare yourself for class and public presentations in high school and college. You’ll learn the principles of effective public speaking and practice, practice, practice as you prepare and present various forms of public address, from brief improvisational talks to formal speeches. In the process, you’ll improve your skills and confidence through ongoing, constructive feedback.

In this hands-on exploration of robotics, engineering, and programming, we will begin with the history of robotics and proceed to the basic components of a robotic system. You will work in teams to build, program, and test robots while learning about sensors, motors, automation, and problem-solving. Through design challenges and an end-of-course project, you will develop skills in computational thinking, collaboration, creativity, and engineering design as you seek to design and create a functional robot. Note: Students must provide their own Chromebook or Windows-based Mac laptop.

Launch into the physics, engineering, and imagination behind spaceflight. From the laws of motion to the thrill of lift-off, this hands-on course combines physics and engineering with the excitement of rocketry and space exploration. You will design, build, and launch your own model rockets while exploring orbital mechanics, propulsion, satellite systems, and the challenges of human space travel. Whether you dream of designing spacecraft, studying astrophysics, or leading future missions to Mars, this course offers a powerful launchpad for students interested in STEM and the universe beyond. Through inquiry, experimentation, and collaboration, you will gain not only technical knowledge but also critical problem-solving and leadership skills that will serve you in high school, college, and beyond.

Taught by the Summit Educational Group, this course employs a three-pronged approach to standardized testing success including a proven combination of academic skill-building, test-taking strategy, and ongoing practice testing. Working with smart, caring tutors who know how to make learning fun, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to reach your true potential on test day and beyond. In addition, Summit’s vast network of resources — including proven proprietary course materials — will be accessible to you along the way.

This afternoon elective gives students of all experience levels the chance to develop their skills in a relaxed, supportive setting. You will work on core skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, ball control, and defending while also learning how to communicate and work effectively as a team. A mix of skill activities, small-sided games, and scrimmages will help you build confidence, stay active, and experience the fun and excitement of soccer. You’ll also play real games against other summer programs.

Explore exercise physiology to understand how your body operates, while delving into the science of sports nutrition to optimize performance. You’ll learn about the synergy of advanced training methods, sports nutrition, and exercise physiology as well as potential pitfalls. You’ll also consider the hazards of sports enhancement drugs and the consequences of overtraining or persisting through injuries. Build the skills you need as an athlete, understand your body and how it works, and develop healthy habits, fitness and strength, and team leadership skills along the way.

Unleash your creativity in this full morning of studio arts and ceramics designed for students passionate about exploring and developing their talents in visual arts. You’ll dive into a range of artistic techniques — painting, drawing, sculpture, and ceramics — through engaging projects. Each day will offer new challenges, from mastering brush strokes and learning color theory to shaping clay and crafting your own ceramics. You will experiment and practice with different media, refine your skills, and bring your artistic vision to life. Studio Arts provides a fun, supportive environment to build confidence and nurture your creativity and culminates in a Summer Arts Showcase.

Share your love of music with like-minded peers and collaborate and create with your voices. You’ll learn songs and practice together, with music selections based on your collective interests. No experience is necessary, and the ability to read music is not required. All levels of vocalists, from shower singers to choir members, are encouraged to join and to lift your voices together in song.

For students with prior swimming experience who want to improve their technique, endurance, and race skills. You'll work on stroke efficiency, starts, turns, pacing, and race strategy while building strength and cardiovascular fitness. Through structured practices, timed sets, and race-focused activities, you’ll challenge yourself, track your progress, and develop the skills and mindset needed for competitive swimming.

This afternoon elective will introduce you to the fundamentals of tennis in a fun and supportive environment. Open to all skill levels, it will focus on skills such as serving, forehand and backhand strokes, volleys, footwork, and basic game strategy. You’ll build your skills through practice activities, partner drills, and modified games while developing coordination, confidence, and an appreciation of the sport.

Develop skills in throwing, catching, cutting, positioning, and defending while learning the rules and strategies of Ultimate frisbee. Through skill-building activities, small-sided games, and scrimmages, you will build confidence, improve teamwork and communication, and enjoy a fun, inclusive approach to the sport. For players of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the court, this elective offers a supportive and fun environment for all the volleyball lovers. You’ll learn and practice fundamental skills such as serving, passing, setting, hitting, and team play while developing coordination, communication, and confidence, through drills, games, and modified competition. You’ll also play real games against other summer programs.

Learn fundamental wrestling skills, including stance, movement, takedowns, escapes, and basic defensive techniques, while developing strength, balance, coordination, and confidence. Through instruction, drills, and controlled practice, you’ll learn the fundamentals of wrestling in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment. This afternoon elective is perfect for wrestlers of all levels.

Develop the skills and confidence needed to write compelling college application essays. You will explore what makes an effective personal essay, learn how to identify meaningful experiences and personal themes, and develop a distinctive writing voice that allows admissions readers to understand who you are beyond grades, test scores, and activities. Through guided exercises, discussion, brainstorming, drafting, and revision, you will move from generating ideas to producing a polished college essay. Emphasis will be placed on storytelling, structure, specificity, authenticity, and purposeful reflection as you tackle the Common App essay, individual supplements, and strategies for standardized test writing. You will learn how to transform everyday experiences into meaningful narratives and how to revise your writing for clarity, impact, and originality.

Learn the three Cs (clarity, coherence, and conciseness) and five Ws (who, what, when, where, and why) of journalism as you refine your reporting, interviewing, and writing skills and dive deeply into the techniques, principles, and ethics of journalism and digital photography. We’ll explore the diverse areas of the field, including news, features, profiles, opinion pieces, and criticism, while also experimenting with audio and video storytelling. We’ll engage in classroom discussions about readings from a range of publications, focusing on how to address writing challenges. This course will take you around campus and to local events and communities to provide inspiration for your reporting.