Curriculum Overview
From foundational exploration in middle school to advanced research and specialization in high school, ASD students follow an accelerated path through one of New Hampshire’s most rigorous STEM programs.
From Exploration to Expertise
The Academy for Science and Design provides a comprehensive STEM education that balances rigorous academics with hands-on, real-world application. From 5th through 12th grade, students progress through an accelerated curriculum that develops both broad knowledge across all STEM disciplines and deep expertise in areas of personal interest.
Middle School (Grades 5–8)
Middle school at ASD is about building a strong academic foundation while exposing students to the breadth of what STEM has to offer. Alongside core coursework in mathematics, science, English, and history, students encounter disciplines they may never have explored before — courses like Exploring Aerospace, Exploring Environmental Science, Experimental Physics, and Technology Design give students an early look at real STEM fields before high school specialization begins. Students begin earning high school credits as early as 7th grade, setting the stage for an advanced trajectory ahead.
High School (Grades 9–12)
High school builds on that foundation with advanced coursework across science, mathematics, engineering, and computer science. Required courses for all high schools students include Honors Biology, Honors Chemistry, and Honors Physics, an accelerated mathematics sequence through AP Calculus or AP Statistics, and foundational coursework in both Foundations of Computer Science and Foundations of Engineering, alongside four years of English, three years of World Language, history, AP Government, AP Economics, and Visual and Performing Arts. From there, students pursue specialized electives in areas like Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical), Computer Science and AI, Life Sciences, Environmental Science, and Advanced Mathematics.