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Whether you’re applying to a master’s program or exploring continuing education, Teachers College at Columbia University offers one of the most diverse arrays of academic programs in the United States. If you’re serious about shaping the future of learning and people—Teachers College is where many start that journey. But before you apply, understanding the full scope of academic opportunities is key.
What Academic Programs Are Offered at Teachers College?
Here’s a snapshot of major program categories offered at Teachers College:
| Program Area | Example Degrees Offered | Typical Career Paths |
| Education and Teaching | MA in Curriculum & Teaching, Ed.D. in Early Childhood Ed. | K–12 teachers, curriculum developers, instructional coaches |
| Psychology and Counseling | Ed.M. in Mental Health Counseling, Ph.D. in Psychology | Therapists, psychologists, school counselors |
| Health and Nutrition | MS in Nutrition Education, Ed.D. in Health Education | Health educators, public health researchers |
| Policy and Leadership | MA in Education Policy, Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership | Policy analysts, school leaders, nonprofit directors |
| International and Comparative Ed. | MA in International Educational Development | NGO program officers, education consultants |
Overview of Graduate Programs at Teachers College
Here’s a breakdown of the major fields of study:
| Department | Sample Programs |
| Education Policy & Social Analysis | Education Policy, Economics and Education, Sociology and Education |
| Counseling & Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology (PhD), Counseling Psychology (PhD, EdM) |
| Human Development | Cognitive Studies, Neuroscience and Education |
| International and Transcultural Studies | International Educational Development, Anthropology and Education |
| Health and Behavior Studies | Applied Behavior Analysis, Nutrition Education, Public Health Education |
Doctoral Programs: Specializations and Opportunities
Doctoral students at Columbia can choose from three main paths: PhD, EdD, and EdD CTAS. The PhD is research-focused and best for those aiming for academic or policy roles. The EdD is more practice-based, often chosen by school or education leaders. The EdD CTAS is for experienced educators who want to lead system-wide change. Students can specialize in areas like Urban Education Leadership, Measurement & Evaluation, or more specific fields like Deaf Education.
Undergraduate Programs and Courses
Teachers College at Columbia University doesn’t offer undergraduate degrees. But Columbia undergrads from Columbia College or the School of General Studies can take certain TC courses, especially in areas like psychology, health, or education.
Start by choosing the program you’re interested in—each one has its own deadlines and requirements. Most applications will ask for:
- A completed online form
- Transcripts from all colleges or universities you’ve attended
- A personal statement focused on your chosen program
- A résumé or CV
- Two or three letters of recommendation
- GRE scores (only for some doctoral programs)
Be sure to check the department’s website for extra tips or details from faculty.
Admission Requirements for Doctoral Candidates
Here’s a summary of core requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
| Educational Background | Master’s degree preferred; some programs accept exceptional BA/BS only |
| Transcripts | Required from all colleges/universities attended |
| Statement of Purpose | Tailored to research goals and faculty alignment |
| Letters of Recommendation | Three strong references, academic or professional |
| Writing Sample | Required for most programs, length and format vary |
| GRE (if applicable) | Optional for most programs, recommended for competitive applicants |
| Résumé or CV | Must include academic, research, and professional experience |
| English Proficiency (if intl.) | TOEFL or IELTS required for non-native speakers |
Important Dates and Deadlines for Applications
Before diving into the calendar, here’s what to expect in terms of key dates:
| Deadline Type | Typical Date |
| Priority Deadline for Doctoral Programs | December 1-15 (for Fall entry) |
| Final Deadline for MA/MS/EdM | Varies by program, often rolling |
| International Student Deadline | Slightly earlier than domestic |
| FAFSA Submission for Financial Aid | Opens October 1, priority by February |
Deadlines can shift year to year, so always verify through the TC Admissions portal.
What Are the Tuition Costs for Academic Programs at Columbia University?
Tuition at Teachers College is charged per credit, and it depends on your program. As of 2025:
- Graduate tuition per credit: about $1,970
- Full-time yearly cost: around $47,000–$52,000
There are also extra fees for health services, student activities, and some course materials.
Financial Aid and Student Loan Options
“Grad school aid is very minimally need based. […] you’re eligible for $20,500 in unsubsidized loans and then grad PLUS up to cost of attendance, having a high EFC shouldn’t impact you’re aid as there’s no need‑based aid”
Here are available options:
- FAFSA
- Graduate PLUS Loan
- Payment Plans
International students can explore private lenders, some of which do not require a U.S. co-signer.
Scholarships Available for Incoming Students
While funding is competitive, Teachers College offers merit-based and program-specific scholarships. These include:
| Scholarship | Details |
| TC Dean’s Grant | Based on academic merit and need |
| Minority Scholarships | For underrepresented backgrounds |
| Named Fellowships | Funded by alumni/endowments (e.g., Milman Fellowship in Childhood Development) |
| Research Assistantships | Typically available for doctoral students |
Applicants are automatically considered for most scholarships when applying by priority deadlines.
Who Are the Faculty Members at Teachers College?
Faculty members hold doctorates from institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Oxford, and Columbia itself, and many have decades of experience teaching, conducting funded research, and mentoring doctoral students. Some serve as editors of leading academic journals, while others lead major research labs or centers focused on areas like child development, inclusive education, school leadership, literacy, or digital learning innovation. At Teachers College, research is not siloed—professors regularly collaborate across departments, inviting students into interdisciplinary projects that blend psychology, health sciences, public policy, and pedagogy.
Here’s a look at the kind of expertise represented across the faculty:
| Department | Example Areas of Faculty Expertise |
| Counseling & Clinical Psychology | Trauma recovery, school mental health, multicultural counseling |
| Curriculum & Teaching | Anti-racist pedagogy, urban education, bilingual education |
| Education Policy & Social Analysis | K–12 policy, higher ed finance, equity in school reform |
| Health & Behavioral Studies | Public health nutrition, physical activity research, health promotion |
| Human Development | Cognitive development, learning sciences, adolescent psychology |
What Is the Campus Life Like at Teachers College?
“Feeling it will be difficult as a grad student because other grad students … don’t care as much about partying. … I’m applying for on‑campus housing … because it looks … like a relatively close‑knit community and there’s a pub in the basement”
The atmosphere at Teachers College is shaped by its focus on education, psychology, health, and human development. Students are passionate, socially aware, and driven to make real change in their fields.
Even though it’s a graduate school, campus life is active and community-focused. There are research talks, cultural events, and student-led projects happening all the time. Collaboration is common—students from different programs often work together on topics like education and mental health or policy and practice. Clubs and organizations are also interdisciplinary, helping build a shared sense of purpose.
Wellness is a big part of the experience. Students have access to mental health support, fitness programs, and helpful academic advising. The environment is intense, but also supportive—faculty are approachable and genuinely care about student progress.
Being in New York City adds even more to the experience. The campus is right next to Columbia University and close to parks, museums, and public transit. Students enjoy the benefits of a close-knit academic setting with the energy of the city just outside. For many, Teachers College is more than just a place to earn a degree—it’s a launchpad for making a difference.
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Top Tips from Our Expert
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Alyssa Mendoza, AP Coordinator and College Prep Specialist
Sources: Columbia University, Reddit
