Summer Scholars Courses
Grades 9-12
Four Weeks
2+2 option
Students may combine two two-week morning major courses to create a four-week program. To do this, select the application type "Summer Scholars
(two-week PLUS two-week) Grades 9-12" to be offered the two-week course options.
Your afternoon options will be the same as the full four-week program.
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Dive into the world of college-level composition, mastering the art of rhetoric and producing persuasive essays. Together, we’ll decode complex texts to learn how to improve your own writing. You’ll turn your ideas into structured, effective arguments and leave the course a confident college-ready writer.
Four-week course. Period 1 and 2.
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Explore the art of fiction, personal essays, and poetry as you develop your unique voice and build an impressive portfolio of work. You’ll engage in group collaborations, receive personalized guidance in one-on-one sessions with your instructor, and take part in workshop-style feedback sessions and peer editing, where your ideas will come to life through constructive discussions.
Assignments will be tailored to your individual interests, giving you the chance to experiment and refine your own creative expression. As you read diverse literary works, you'll not only learn what constitutes exceptional writing but also hone the tools and inspiration to let your creativity soar.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
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In this comprehensive course covering much of an academic year of content, you’ll delve into key topics such as properties of mathematical systems, solutions of equations and inequalities, graphs of linear equations and systems, operations on polynomials, and more. Prepare to unravel the mysteries of mathematical concepts, including solving quadratic equations through factoring and the quadratic formula. The art of solving word problems is woven into the fabric of this course, providing a practical application for your skills.
This course will equip you with the tools to confidently tackle high school-level mathematics.
Prerequisite: Prealgebra
Four-week, credit-eligible course. Periods 1-3.
Note: Math courses can cover much of a full year of curriculum in four weeks. Students should expect a fast-paced, intensive, engaging course and must demonstrate a pattern of high achievement with a recommendation from their current math teacher. While some of these courses are eligible for credit, NMH cannot guarantee credit or acceleration at another school. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain approval from their school prior to commencing with a credit-eligible course. Please note the prerequisites for each course.
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In this course, you’ll 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 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, Algebra 2.
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Four-week, credit-eligible course. Periods 1-3.
Note: Math courses can cover much of a full year of curriculum in four weeks. Students should expect a fast-paced, intensive, engaging course and must demonstrate a pattern of high achievement with a recommendation from their current math teacher. While some of these courses are eligible for credit, NMH cannot guarantee credit or acceleration at another school. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain approval from their school prior to commencing with a credit-eligible course. Please note the prerequisites for each course.
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Whether you're aiming to boost your grade, deepen your understanding, or prepare for the next level in the upcoming academic year, this comprehensive review course is for you. Dive into a thorough exploration of essential Algebra II concepts, from functions and equations to quadratic systems, presented in a student-centered manner.
Gear up for a learning adventure that clarifies complex algebraic ideas and paves the way for advancement. This course equips you with the tools for success, bolsters confidence, and presents Algebra II as accessible and rewarding for students on their mathematical journey.
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Four-week. Periods 1 and 2. Non-credit course
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Our precalculus course is crafted for students gearing up for the challenges of the upcoming academic year. You’ll explore polynomial and rational functions, unravel the complexities of exponential and logarithmic functions, and decode the mysteries of trigonometric functions. This isn't just a preview; it's a strategic leap towards your academic goals. Armed with a Texas Instruments graphing calculator TI Nspire CAS, you'll not only unlock mathematical concepts but also gain confidence.
Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra II
Four-week. Periods 1 and 2. Non-credit course.
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Step into the fascinating world of biology with this engaging course designed for students passionate about STEM, life sciences, or exploring the outdoors. You’ll unravel the mysteries of cell structure, genetics, organismal biology, evolution, and ecology through interactive discussions and collaborative projects. Dive deep into biology by designing your own lab experiments, analyzing ecosystems, and exploring how life thrives on Earth. With the opportunity to tailor research to topics that excite you, this course offers a dynamic blend of theory and practice that prepares you for both high school and college-level science. Perfect for students ready to challenge themselves while mastering the building blocks of life.
Prerequisite: High school-level science class.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
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Biotechnology is a rapidly advancing discipline driving major innovations in medicine, agriculture, environmental conservation, and pharmaceuticals. In this course, you’ll learn about major topics and techniques in this fascinating field and key themes in molecular biology that underlie the most important biotechnological processes, such as DNA's structure and function, gene expression, and enzyme kinetics. Practice cell culturing, spectroscopy, bioinformatics, gel electrophoresis, polymerase chain reactions (PCR), and protein purification.
You’ll also discuss the implications and ethics of these techniques, how biotechnologists solve real-world issues in the lab, and what the future holds for this exciting field.
Prerequisite: Experience in biology or chemistry is helpful.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
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Dive into the dynamic world of chemistry through hands-on experiments and cutting-edge research methods as you explore advanced laboratory techniques and build your scientific expertise used in both high school and college-level science.
From mastering titrations and chromatography to exploring the secrets of emission spectra, you’ll design and execute your own experiments. You’ll also strengthen your skills in critical areas such as data analysis, experimental design, and scientific writing. Whether you’re preparing for AP Chemistry or a future in STEM or just love discovering how chemistry shapes the world around us, this course provides you with the tools and confidence to excel in your science journey.
Prerequisites: Algebra II and introductory chemistry or equivalent.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
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How does the mind work? How do our thoughts and emotions shape our actions? Are there differences in the way people learn?
Study human behavior through literature, library research, experiments, and group projects. You’ll explore topics such as learning, memory, development, personality, the biological basis of behavior, and psychotherapy, as well as newer subfields of study such as forensic (criminal) psychology, health psychology, the psychology of terrorism, and gender psychology. We’ll cover both theory and practical applications that will help you understand how psychology affects your everyday life.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
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Dive into the world of sustainable farming and food systems with this immersive, hands-on program at the NMH farm. Over four weeks, you’ll balance classroom learning on food systems and sustainability with real-world experience, working alongside expert farm staff members and younger students as you develop leadership skills. This program offers the perfect mix of theory and practice: Whether you’re cultivating crops, reading articles and literature, or exploring organic farming techniques, you’ll see how sustainability principles come to life on this historic hillside farm.
You’ll also visit local farms around the Connecticut River Valley, engaging with farmers using a variety of approaches to growing and producing food. As a capstone project, you’ll design and carry out an independent research or creative farming project. This program is ideal for students passionate about STEM, life sciences, food systems, or sustainability, offering invaluable experience on how to make a positive difference in high school, college, and our world. Join us to build leadership, self-confidence, and a deeper connection to the land and commitment to a more sustainable future.
Four weeks. Periods 1-3.
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Economics is all around you — every time you make a choice, you’re engaging with it! In this dynamic, hands-on course, you’ll dive into the forces shaping our world, from the microlevel of daily decisions (like what to spend that $5 on) to the macrolevel of national policies and global markets. Through interactive simulations, debates, and real-world case studies, you’ll explore topics like personal finance, the stock market, environmental economics, international trade, and how money really works in today’s world.
As you investigate economic institutions, track stock market trends, or debate current global trends, you’ll develop critical skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and strategic thinking. By the end of the course, you’ll have a deeper understanding of how economics shapes everything around us, and you’ll be ready to tackle complex challenges in fields like science, engineering, political science, and law.
Prerequisite: completion of Algebra II; precalculus is recommended.
Four-week course. Periods 1-2.
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Take charge of your future and gain essential decision-making skills to master personal finance and investing while preparing for college and beyond. From budgeting and saving to understanding investments, diversified portfolio management, and economic trends, you’ll learn how to make informed financial, purchasing, and investment decisions that set you up for long-term success.
Through hands-on projects, including a competitive Golden Bell stock market simulation, guest speakers, and a trip to New York’s financial district and One World Trade Center, you’ll experience the real world of finance. Whether you’re starting a DECA finance club at your school or simply looking to gain a competitive edge, this course will equip you with the tools to take control of your financial future.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
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Step back in time and dive into the world of knights, kings, and castles in this exciting, experiential course as you immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history, art, architecture and culture of the Middle Ages.
Led by a Yale and UPenn-trained medieval historian, the course takes learning beyond the classroom with excursions to The Cloisters, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, and even live battle reenactments. Explore medieval life through real experiences: examine armor at an armory museum, visit a working monastery, witness falconry up close, and test your hand and eye at archery. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of medieval warfare, religion, and everyday life — and even plan a medieval banquet with your classmates.
This course is not just an adventure — it’s a way to develop critical thinking, historical analysis, and research skills. Ideal for students passionate about history, art, architecture, cultural contacts, and literature, this course promises a fun, engaging, and unforgettable learning experience.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
See Tuition page for additional fees.
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Students passionate about international diplomacy and leadership step into the role of global ambassadors in this transformative Model UN Fellowship experience. Combining two intensive courses, the fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the world of foreign policy, crisis resolution, and strategic decision-making. Through high-stakes UN simulations, hands-on workshops, and engaging debate exercises, you’ll build expertise in public speaking, negotiation, and team leadership while tackling urgent global issues such as climate change and human rights, among others.
Supported by NMH’s global alumni network and real-world case studies, you’ll gain a nuanced understanding of global governance and sharpen your skills in conflict mediation and persuasive argument. This unique fellowship not only prepares you for Model UN, student government and public speaking success yet also equips you with the confidence and insight to lead in high school, college, and on the world stage.
Combine two consecutive Model UN courses for the 4-week fellowship program - see the Diplomacy in Action: Skills for Global Debate and Leadership and Charting the Course: Leadership and International Diplomacy course description in the two-week section. Or take one of these 2-week courses alone.
Four weeks. Periods 1 and 2.
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Have you ever imagined the story you were reading coming to life in front of you? Have you ever gone to the theater and wondered how the idea for that play, musical, or movie came about? In From Page to Stage, you’ll be immersed in the world and process of theater-making. You’ll learn about play scripts and their function as the blueprint for a play’s production. You’ll read and discuss plays in the classroom, before attending four of them in live performances across New England’s rich summer landscape of professional theater.
The course will put you in direct dialogue with the theater practitioners of classical plays and brand new works, and you’ll experience first-hand what it takes to evolve a great idea from the page to stage.
Four-week course.
See Tuition page for additional fees.
Afternoon Options for Grades 9-12
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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.
Prerequisites: Students must be ready for physical exertion and able to understand and willing to follow safety instructions. Students must be able to swim at least 50 meters unaided. For health and safety reasons, international students must have an intermediate level of English or TOEFL B1 level or above (writing: 15; reading: 15; speaking:16-20; listening: 17-21).
4 week or 2 week (Session 1 or Session 2)
Period 3 and 4See Tuition page for additional fees.
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Spend your afternoons getting hooked on the art and science of fly fishing in the beautiful Connecticut River Valley . This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of fly-tying, casting, and reading the water in diverse ecosystems, from streams to lakes. You’ll also gain insight into conservation and ecology, learning how these vibrant waterways support life.
Perfect for students passionate about science, conservation, or the outdoors, this course fosters patience, problem-solving, and a deeper connection with nature. Whether you’re casting for trout or bass or studying the rhythms of a river, each lesson offers a new challenge and a deeper understanding of our natural world and ourselves.
Periods 3 and 4.
4 week or 2 week (Session 1 or Session 2)See Tuition page for additional fees.
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Item description
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This is a unique, hands-on math course designed to meet you where you are and help you conquer essential math concepts with confidence. In this self-paced, teacher-guided course, you’ll strengthen your skills through problem-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 critical thinking, competence, and collaboration 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.
Period 3
4 weeks or 2 weeks (Session 1 or Session 2)
4 week students may combine Advanced Topics in Math (2 weeks) and Podcasting (2 weeks) -
The sky's the limit in this introduction to the world of aviation! Explore the science and excitement of flight, from mastering the four forces (lift, drag, thrust, and gravity) to navigating with airport sectional charts and weather conditions. Dive into flight planning, airport operations, and a consideration of drone flight through engaging discussions and simulations.
Beyond the classroom, you’ll examine gliders and small planes, experience a state-of-the-art flight simulator, and take field trips, including a visit to a local airport to learn about the life of a pilot and observe take-offs and landings. Whether you’re passionate about STEM, physics, space, or air travel or simply looking for adventure, this course will ignite your upward trajectory!
Four-week course. Period 3.
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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.
Period 3 or Period 4 (grades 7-12) -
Get involved in the community! In this course, 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, health care, education, and children’s welfare.
Two- or four-week course. Period 3.
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Dive into the art of photography and explore both digital and darkroom skills to bring your creative vision to life! You’ll learn camera fundamentals — from shutter speed to aperture and depth of field — and get behind the lens to capture landscapes, portraits, close-ups, and even sports action. Experiment with digital editing techniques, then step into the darkroom to develop your own black-and-white prints, discovering the magic of bringing images to life in real time. Perfect for anyone passionate about visual storytelling, social media, or the arts, this course equips you with skills for high school projects, college portfolios, and beyond.
Prerequisite: You must bring your own digital SLR camera.
Two- or four-week course.
(Two-week Session 1 only)
Period 3. -
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.
Two- or four-week course. Period 3.
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Bring your laptop and your curiosity and explore the limitless possibilities of hands-on design in our dynamic MAKE! course in the cutting-edge makerspace 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.
Period 3
4 week or 2 week (Session 1 or Session 2)
No prior experience required.See Tuition page for additional fees.
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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.
Four-week course.
Period 3 -
Calling all thespians and aspiring actors! Are you theatrical? Do you love to perform? In the Acting+ portion of this course, you’ll explore acting, improvisation, and mime. You’ll perform short scenes and practice monologues and learn the basics of stage production, including set design, lighting, costume design, and props. You and your classmates will also produce a show to be presented to the campus community at the conclusion of the session.
In Summer Singers+, you’ll 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.
Note: Both Acting+ (Period 3) and Summer Singers+ (Period 4) can be taken separately or in combination for the full afternoon.
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Calling all aspiring thespians! In this course, you’ll explore acting, improvisation, mime, short scenes, and monologues. You’ll learn the basics of stage production, such as set design, lighting, costume design, and the use of props, and prepare a production to be performed for the campus community at the conclusion of the session.
Four-week course. Grades 7 to 12. Period 3.
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In Summer Singers+, you’ll 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.
4- and 2-week course. Period 4.
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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.
Available options (with additional fees):
Four-week SAT math and verbal: Period 3 or Period 4, four days per week
Four-week SAT math only: Period 3 or Period 4, Monday and Thursday
Four-week SAT verbal only: Period 3 or Period 4, Tuesday and Friday
Two-week SAT math and verbal: Period 3 or Period 4, four days per week
Two-week intensive SAT prep: Period 1 and Period 2, Monday through Friday - Session 1 or 2
See Tuition page for additional fees. -
Mastering Classic Entrees
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, such as spaghetti carbonara, chicken parmesan, tacos with homemade salsa, stir-fried vegetables, grilled salmon, and roasted chicken.
From mastering safe knife skills to building confidence in the kitchen, this course is for students eager to learn foundational cooking techniques while experimenting with fresh ingredients and combining classic flavors. Each session will focus on a new recipe, offering a chance to learn the basics of seasoning, sautéing, and plating with style. By the end of the two weeks, you’ll be able to prepare several signature dishes with the confidence of a pro.
Sweet Creations and Desserts
If you’ve ever dreamed of creating picture-perfect desserts, this course is for you. Over two exciting weeks, you’ll discover the secrets to crafting timeless sweet treats, such as chocolate chip cookies, crème crûlée, apple pie, chocolate mousse, pavlova, and cheesecake.
You’ll explore the science behind baking, whipping, and tempering while learning the essential skills of measuring, mixing, and blending textures and flavors. With a focus on technique and creativity, this course will help you gain the confidence to make mouthwatering desserts that not only taste amazing but look Instagram-worthy, too! Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a more experienced baker, these classic recipes will be sure to impress your friends and family.
Session 1 and 2, Period 4.
See Tuition page for additional fees.
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Racket sports: tennis, badminton, and pickleball
Basketball
Soccer
Swimming
Ultimate Frisbee
Volleyball
Dance
Period 4 -
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.
Two- or four-week course. Period 3.