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Academics

Education That Leads to Success

At MHS, we strongly believe every child deserves the best. That means the absolute best teachers, facilities, and academics—regardless of background. Every day, we see exactly what our students can achieve with hands-on learning, adaptive teaching techniques, and career-driven education.

elementary students at story time

Elementary Division

In pre-K through fourth grade, elementary students begin building the values, skills, and knowledge to lead them through life.

MHS middle schoolers in hallway

Middle Division

Our middle school academics foster a positive, supportive setting as students grow from children to young adults in fifth through eighth grade.

senior division students walking in spartan commons

Senior Division

High school is a time for challenging, hands-on learning that prepares students for what’s next. College and career support helps them plan their path forward.

High school students learning to weld

Career and Technical Education

Milton Hershey School’s award-winning Career and Technical Education (CTE) program prepares students for life after MHS. They graduate both college- and career-ready. Students are introduced to the 10 CTE program areas in elementary school. As high schoolers, they receive:

  • Tailor-made instruction
  • Hands-on learning
  • The ability to gain industry-recognized certifications
  • Real-life experience through internships, co-ops, and pre-apprenticeships

An Education for Life

At MHS, we focus on much more than traditional academics in the classroom. Through our education program, we help shape every aspect of students’ lives—character, self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and more. They’re given the skills, tools, and experiences needed to succeed in life.

MHS houseparents cooking dinner with one of their students

Safe, Caring Environment

Students learn life skills while living with classmates and houseparents in a family-like environment.

students walking in a hallway with their MOLD mentor

Character and Leadership

The Compass Project helps students develop their values and become compassionate citizens.

Student using school technology

Learning Technology

MHS integrates technology into its academic curriculum with instruction on how to use these tools safely and appropriately.

Senior Division students traveling abroad

Multicultural and Global Education

Students view the world from a global perspective through classroom learning and travel opportunities.

CTE automotive program area student

Internships, Co-Ops, and Apprenticeships

Senior Division students can intern or co-op with partner companies. We have strong relationships with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, The Hershey Company, The Hotel Hershey, the Hershey Bears, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, and many others. Through this program, students get hands-on experience and build strong resumes.

The MHS Apprenticeship program is the first of its kind in the state. With two distinct parts, it offers pre-apprenticeship learning for current students. It also provides postgraduate apprenticeships to those seeking a career in a skilled trade. The program helps students and alumni develop market-relevant skills for in-demand occupations.

graduate programs for success helps a student apply to college

College and Career Readiness

The MHS Graduate Programs for Success (GPS) staff makes sure each student has the resources and preparation they need to feel confident in what comes next. College and career readiness is a hallmark of our school. Counselors work closely with high-school students as they plan for life after MHS, offering guidance and resources. Whether students are looking for jobs or applying to college, they are here to help.

Our counselors continue to support alumni through post-secondary education, like college or trade school. They help alumni manage MHS scholarship money accrued through strong academic performance and good citizenship during high school.

MHS Homecoming 2025

Alumni

MHS graduates—all 12,000+ of them—share a legacy of success. Alumni serve as mentors, advisors, and role models for current students and young graduates. MHS ensures they stay supported and connected to each other and their school.

See How We Support GraduatesRead Alumni Success Stories

Virtual Campus Tour

Navigate through our modern campus, getting a closer look at our cutting-edge facilities, inside classrooms and student homes, and all that MHS has to offer. You can begin by clicking on the icon below.

Milton Hershey School will not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion or religious creed, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected under applicable federal or Pennsylvania law (collectively “Protected Characteristics”), against any applicant for admission, enrolled student, or any other individual(s) who participate(s) in the programs, services, and activities of the School. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.