Science

The science department at Northfield Mount Hermon believes in putting first things first. That’s why instead of starting your science education with biology as you would at most high schools, at NMH you’ll start by studying energy, matter, and motion. In other words, physics. By starting with the principles that underlie everything else in science, you’ll be better able to understand all the other science you learn, whether it’s Observational Astronomy, Genetics and Ethics, or AP Biology or Chemistry.

 

Another way science instruction at NMH is different is the emphasis we put on learning by doing. For instance, NMH’s farm offers incredible opportunities for all kinds of experimentation and observation. Instead of just reading about reproduction in biology, you can track the pregnancy of a cow, maybe even help with the delivery. Or maybe you could do a project involving compost or lavender oil.

 

Some courses go even farther afield. Maybe your geology class will go to a local cemetery and observe how the grave stones have eroded. You could go to Six Flags with your physics class to study roller coasters. With our observatory, you can do more than just study astronomy—NMH students have even discovered and catalogued asteroids.

 

We also have an international program that can take you places like Costa Rica, New Zealand, or Uruguay. You might study humming bird feeding habits in the jungle or track growth patterns of plants in disturbed areas. In addition to doing environmental studies research, you’ll also gain language skills, insight into literary and cultural traditions, and have a powerful personal experience living with a host family.

 

With all these opportunities, as well as faculty who constantly improve their skills and knowledge through professional development, science at NMH is innovative and interesting. It can prepare you for a career or just satisfy your curiosities.