The School

Located in picturesque Hartsville, SC, about 20 minutes from I-20, the Governor's School for Science and Mathematics has provided a challenging living/learning environment to more than 1,000 students since 1988.

Only the Best Courses
The Governor's School for Science and Mathematics offers a balanced curriculum that places special emphasis on science and mathematics while also embracing the humanities. Though demanding, the course work is enjoyable and hands-on. Small classes, two-and-a-half-hour labs, extended field trips, directed laboratory investigation and mentored research ensure quality time with faculty and opportunity to fully explore subjects. 

Only the Best Teachers
GSSM faculty members are chosen for their intelligence, experience, enthusiasm and gift for teaching. All members of our faculty have master's degrees and 80 percent have doctorates. Many are actively involved in research and publishing. Their concern is for the "whole student." They see their charge as helping students grow in their studies and into responsible human beings. 

Senior Research
Required of all rising seniors, students conduct research in industrial and academic labs working side-by-side with scientist mentors. Students then compile findings, write an academic research paper and make a formal presentation to the statewide science community.

More Than Just Classwork
It's not all about books at GSSM. From sports to clubs, students have lots of choices for extra-curricular activities. GSSM's small size - 128 students - ensures everyone has the opportunity to participate. 

Most students agree the best part of GSSM is living on campus. Being away from home gives students the chance to make decisions for themselves and grow into independence in a safe, monitored environment. Living in the residence hall allows students to get to know people from different backgrounds. Life in residence also makes for deep, lasting friendships. No course in the world could better prepare a student for college life. 

January Interim

Students immerse themselves in one course for three weeks each January. Students can enrich their education with study abroad or they can stay on campus and concentrate on an area of special interest such as photography, chemistry, chess, scuba diving, finance and more.