Hampshire College Summer Programs offer intellectually curious high school students and recent graduates a chance to explore cutting-edge ideas in a learner driven environment. These short term immersive experiences are designed to build confidence, collaborative skills, and a stronger sense of academic purpose.
Participants engage in project based work, lively discussions, and hands on labs while living on a vibrant New England campus that encourages independence and creative risk taking. Below is a quick reference to the most relevant aspects of the summer experience.
| Program Focus | Typical Duration | Session Dates | Approximate Cost | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts Exploration | 3 weeks | Early June, Mid June, Late June | $4,200–$4,800 | Students completing grades 10–12 |
| STEM & Creative Technology | 3 weeks | Early July, Mid July | $4,300–$4,900 | Students completing grades 10–12 |
| Open Study (choose your own focus) | 3 weeks | Late June, Early July | $4,100–$4,700 | Students completing grades 10–12 |
| Advanced Robotics & Fabrication | 2 weeks | Mid July | $3,600–$4,000 | Students completing grades 11–12 |
Academic Exploration and Independent Thought
Curriculum Design and Class Options
The Hampshire College Summer Programs curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking, so students can combine fields such as science, art, and social critique. Course offerings change each year, but common themes include media activism, computational art, and experimental research methods. Learners propose projects that connect theory to real world problems, supported by faculty who act as mentors rather than lecturers.
Collaborative Learning Environment
Small class sizes and informal spaces encourage sustained dialogue among peers from many backgrounds. Students often co create zines, prototypes, or digital platforms, presenting their work in public showcases at the end of each session. This collaborative model helps participants practice giving and receiving thoughtful feedback.
On Campus Life and Residential Experience
Housing, Dining, and Community Building
Most participants live in campus residence halls designed to foster cross cultural conversation and lasting friendships. Shared common areas, nightly check ins, and structured social activities help new students adjust to dorm life while maintaining focus on their projects. Residential staff, including Hampshire alumni, are available for guidance at all hours.
Location and Access to Resources
Located in Amherst, Massachusetts, the campus provides quick access to libraries, maker spaces, and nearby cultural institutions. Students can easily reach local theaters, hiking trails, and independent bookstores, turning free time into additional learning opportunities. The small town setting creates a safe, focused environment while remaining close to larger cities.
Support Services and Accessibility
Learning Support and Well Being
Academic support staff offer guidance on research, writing, and presentation skills, with flexible hours for one on one consultations. Mental health professionals are available for workshops and short term check ins, helping students manage the demands of intensive projects. Participants with documented learning differences receive individualized accommodations to ensure full access to program activities.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Need based aid, partial scholarships, and payment plans are available to reduce financial barriers for qualified families. Applicants can indicate their interest in financial support during the online form, and a dedicated counselor reviews each request confidentially. Hampshire also partners with external scholarship programs that may further offset program costs.
Application Process and Deadlines
Required Materials and Review Criteria
Prospective students submit an online application, a short personal statement, and one teacher recommendation. Admissions readers look for intellectual curiosity, maturity, and a willingness to take creative risks, rather than perfect grades or test scores. Rolling review allows applicants to receive decisions quickly and secure housing early.
Housing Application and Logistics
Housing requests are collected through a separate portal, where students can indicate preferences such as single gender or accessibility needs. Room assignments consider compatibility factors, and students receive move in instructions well before arrival. Detailed travel and transportation guidance helps families coordinate drop off and pick up plans.
Next Steps and Planning Guide
- Review program options and session dates that align with your academic interests
- Prepare your application materials, including personal statement and teacher recommendation
- Submit your application before the early deadline to improve housing selection chances
- Complete the housing and financial aid forms promptly once accepted
- Attend virtual orientation sessions and review arrival logistics before move in day
- Connect with future classmates through optional social channels and pre program events
FAQ
Reader questions
Do I need prior robotics or coding experience to apply to the STEM sessions?
No, the program is designed for students with a range of technical backgrounds, from beginners to experienced coders.
How are final projects presented to family and the Hampshire community?
Students showcase their work in a public exhibition at the end of the session, often including demonstrations, talks, and digital portfolios.
What happens if a participant needs to leave the program early for a family emergency?
The Residential Life and Academic Affairs teams work with families to create a flexible plan, including possible early departure or remote participation options when feasible.
Is financial aid available for international students attending Hampshire College Summer Programs?
Limited need based aid may be available for international students, and applicants are encouraged to indicate their interest in financial support during the application process.