Phillips Exeter Academy offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to foster critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and collaborative learning through the renowned Harkness method. This discussion-based approach encourages students to engage deeply with material in small seminar-style classes.
- English: Courses explore literature from ancient texts to contemporary works, emphasizing analysis, creative writing, and rhetoric. Students study Shakespeare, American novels, poetry, and global narratives, honing skills in argumentation and interpretation.
- History: The department covers world history, U.S. history, economics, and philosophy. Classes delve into ancient civilizations, modern conflicts, and ethical dilemmas, promoting historical empathy and evidence-based reasoning.
- Mathematics: Famous for its problem sets, math courses range from algebra and geometry to advanced calculus, linear algebra, and number theory. Emphasis is on problem-solving and mathematical proof, preparing students for STEM pursuits.
- Sciences: Biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science labs encourage hands-on experimentation. Advanced topics include organic chemistry, astrophysics, and neuroscience, integrating technology and research methodologies.
- Foreign Languages: Immersive programs in Chinese, French, Greek, Latin, Russian, Spanish, and Arabic build proficiency through conversation, literature, and culture studies. Heritage speakers receive tailored advanced instruction.
- Classics: In-depth study of Latin and Greek languages, mythology, and ancient history, connecting classical antiquity to modern thought.
- Arts: Visual arts, music, theater, and dance courses allow creative expression. Students produce portfolios, perform in ensembles, and stage productions, blending technique with innovation.
- Computer Science: From introductory programming in Python to AI and data science, courses develop coding skills and ethical computing practices.
- Humanities: Interdisciplinary electives like ethics, psychology, and comparative religion explore human experience across cultures.
The academy's 450+ courses ensure breadth and depth, with winter terms allowing specialized topics like robotics or creative writing. Extracurriculars complement academics, supporting holistic development. This curriculum, spanning grades 9-12 and postgraduate, equips students for top universities worldwide, emphasizing ethical leadership and lifelong learning. With a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, personalized guidance enhances mastery in all disciplines.
