Academics
What you wish you could learn in school, taught here daily.
Looking for a customizable academic experience, tailored to your interests? GSSM’s challenging curriculum focuses on advanced science, technology, engineering, and math courses while thoroughly exploring the humanities to give you a well-rounded, complete education.
Academics At-A-Glance
- Rigorous science and math coursework—check out our course catalog
- Creative, stimulating classroom experiences
- Highly educated, expert faculty
- Superior lab facilities for biology, chemistry, physics, and computer science
- Community of engaged and motivated scholars
- College- and graduate-level research opportunities
Regular high schools may not offer enough challenge for motivated students, especially those interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Many high schools are simply not equipped to explore these subjects at an advanced level.
GSSM is one of the best STEM high schools in the country, giving students an educational advantage that serves them well in college and throughout their careers. Our state-of-the-art lab facilities and talented faculty allow you to work ahead of your grade level and be challenged by new aspects of your favorite subjects. GSSM also offers college- and graduate-level learning opportunities not available in traditional high schools, like study abroad, independent study and mentored science and economics research.
Only the Best Teachers
GSSM faculty members are chosen for their intelligence, experience and enthusiasm for teaching. All members of our faculty have master's degrees and 80 percent have doctorates; many are actively involved in with our student teams and organizations outside the classroom. What’s more, they consistently challenge students to think independently and stretch themselves academically.
Independent Study
All GSSM students can participate in independent study courses to further pursue an area of interest. Typically, three or more students interested in the same course can approach a faculty member about teaching the course. For years, neuroscience was such a popular independent study course that GSSM turned it into an official schedule offering. Other popular independent study topics include math and computer science.
Mentored Research
All GSSM students participate in a six-week summer research program which focuses on laboratory research or field work. Under the guidance of scientists at universities or other research facilities, students have access to the latest equipment and expertise. All students write a formal paper and present their findings at the GSSM Research Colloquium every February. Some students even have their papers published in professional journals and present their papers at professional conferences. Recent student projects include:
- Cancer research at the German Cancer Research Center
- Tracking the Milky Way radio plume at the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute
- Studying the ecology of Diamondback Terrapins in the South Carolina Lowcountry
- Biophysics at the Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology in South Korea
Engaging Electives
January Interim, a three-week mini-break from required coursework, takes place between the fall and spring semesters and explores fun subjects outside of the ordinary curriculum. These popular, interesting classes give students a chance to express themselves creatively, discover interests outside of their academic pursuits, and travel in the US and abroad. Past courses have included:
- Scuba Diving
- Wildlife Photography
- Euclidean Geometry
- Video Game Programming
- Chess
- Filmmaking
- Ballroom Dance
- Forensic Chemistry
Ongoing Advantages
Attending GSSM exponentially increases your chances of getting into a great college and landing an exciting, fulfilling career in the field you’re passionate about. College admissions counselors give preference to our former students, because they know that GSSM graduates can handle intensive coursework and self-directed study. While attending college, many GSSM graduates find themselves academically ahead of their peers—they frequently place out of introductory courses and can continue to pursue advanced studies in their favorite subjects.