Academics

The Module System

We Run on Mods

The Module System has been the cornerstone of our distinctive academic approach since 1973. The Mod System has always been innovative and continues to evolve in dynamic ways to meet the needs of our students and their education. The mod system offers students the opportunity to take an active part in shaping their educational experience, to experience broadly, and to learn deeply.

How it Works

  • Six Mods Per Year

    The Academic Year is divided into six, six-week marking periods called modules or "mods."

  • 90-Minute Blocks

    During each mod, students take three blocks of academic classes that meet every day, usually for  90 minutes. These classes take place during A, B, and C-blocks.

  • Double Blocks

    Most courses are taught in a single block, but those that demand more time — like science labs — are taught in double, back-to-back blocks. 

  • Multi-Mod Courses

    Some courses, particularly those in math and languages, span consecutive mods.

  • The D Block

    Students are also required to take a fourth block, known as D Block, during which they take part in athletics, physical education, community service projects, performing arts, and an array of other electives.

  • Earning Credit

    For each block of instruction, students are awarded one credit. Three blocks of credit is equivalent to a full-year course in a traditional schedule.
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    • Mod System Collage

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    • Mod System Collage

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Why We Love It

List of 5 items.

  • 250+ Courses to Choose From

    With over 250 courses rotating throughout the year — from “Afrofuturism” to “Robotics Design” to “Caribbean Dance” — students can truly shape an academic path as unique as they are, with a college-like curriculum you won't find at another high school. 

  • A Humane Pace to the Day

    Fewer classes per day (only three!) means longer, more focused learning blocks, and less time spent rushing between subjects. Students have time to breathe, reflect, and think—a luxury that’s rare and invaluable in today’s fast-paced world.

  • Focused, Immersive Learning

    Each class meets daily for 90 minutes a day, giving students the space to dive deep. Whether they’re writing, building, rehearsing, or coding, students are fully immersed. This allows for 
    a a more meaningful engagement with material, stronger connections with teachers, and a more balanced mental load.

  • Space to Take Risks

    The Mod System’s structure lowers the stakes for trying something new. With shorter, six-week commitments, students can step outside their comfort zones without long-term pressure. Want to take a musical theatre class, learn Mandarin, or study the biology of cancer? At CSW, the schedule says “yes”— and students grow not only in knowledge but in courage.

  • Individualized Schedules

    At CSW, every student works closely with advisors to design a personalized schedule that reflects their interests, goals, and evolving curiosities. No cookie-cutter programs here. The Mod System ensures that each student’s journey is as individual as they are—building confidence, voice, and a true sense of ownership in their learning.

Sample Schedules

45 Georgian Road, Weston, MA 02493
Phone: (781) 642-8600
CSW—a gender-inclusive day and boarding school for grades 9-12—is a national leader in progressive education. We live out our values of inquiry-based learning, student agency, and embracing diverse perspectives in every aspect of our student experience. Young people come to CSW to learn how to learn and then put what they learn into action—essential skills they carry into their futures as doers, makers, innovators, leaders, and exceptional humans who do meaningful work in the world.