Policies

Policies and Procedures

Purpose

The purposes of this policy are to promote and improve the effectiveness of Teachers College computing and communications resources and to support the College community’s norms of scholarly discourse, academic integrity, and fairness. As an academic community, the College places a special value on free expression of ideas. However, unlawful or inappropriate use of these information technologies  (IT) resources can infringe upon the rights of others. Accordingly, all members of the College community are expected to use these resources responsibly. Prevention of abuse of the College’s IT resources is important to:

  • promote the appropriate and productive use of the College’s information technology resources, which are a finite, shared resource of the College community;
  • protect individuals from harassment and undue annoyance;
  • prevent waste of the IT resources and obstruction of College activities; and
  • protect the College and its resources.

 

Scope

This policy applies to all students, staff, faculty members, officers, employees, and affiliates of Teachers College, Columbia University, including extended learning sites, guests, tenants, visitors, contractors, consultants, vendors, individuals authorized by affiliated institutions and organizations, and all others granted use of and/or access to Teachers College, Columbia University technology resources and data.

 

Policy

The information technology resources of the College are part of the Columbia University network; all College users must be familiar with and adhere to the University IT policies found at www.columbia.edu/cu/policy and particularly the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy, policylibrary.columbia.edu/acceptable-use-it-resources-network-and-computing-policy. 

 

Use of College information technology resources must also conform with College policies, regardless of whether they make explicit reference to electronic or other media. Relevant policies, including those related to professional conduct and protection from harassment, are available in the College’s Policy Library, tc.columbia.edu/policylibrary/.

 

Students, faculty, staff and others using College and University electronic resources and services assume personal responsibility for their appropriate use and agree to comply with all relevant policies, as well as applicable laws. College IT resources may not be used for any purpose that violates College or University policies or for any illegal or criminal purposes, including violation of copyright law. Copying, storing, displaying, or distributing copyrighted material using College or University computers or networks without the express permission of the copyright owner, except as otherwise allowed under the copyright law, is prohibited. Under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998, repeat copyright infringements by a user of the College’s IT resources can result in termination of the user’s access to those resources.

 

It is illegal and a violation of College and University policies to attempt to gain access to or use another person’s ID, password, or account, or to send an email impersonating another individual, regardless of where the email originates. Sharing of passwords is prohibited and each user is responsible for the proper use of his or her account and any activity conducted with it.

 

Communication at the College, whether spoken, written, or electronic, should be conducted courteously, and with respect for other people’s ideas, privacy, intellectual property, and right to be free from intimidation, harassment, and unwarranted annoyance, including, but not limited to, obscene and other unwelcome messages and postings.

 

All email and postings should have the name of a person from or for whom it is sent, even if replies are not permitted. Broadcast messages to large lists should have an educational or work-related significance to many members of the group.

 

Messages or files that interfere with or impair the computers or activities of other people, including but not limited to viruses, worms and Trojan horses, are forbidden. They violate College and University policies and applicable law.

 

Failure to abide by these policies will have consequences that may range from warnings to suspension of email and other computing privileges to dismissal or termination of employment. Conduct that violates College and University policies may also violate federal, state, or local law and subject individuals to civil or criminal liability. Violations of Teachers College IT policies, including copyright policies, are also violations of the Student Conduct Code. Individuals who believe that there has been a violation may contact The Office of the CIO or the Vice Provost for Student Affairs.

 

Responsible Office: Teachers College Information Technology

Effective Date: October 1, 2020

Last Updated: July 13, 2020

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Access to Services

During the academic year, many of the services provided by the College are only available to credit students who are registered during the given semester. This includes, but is not limited to, library privileges and email accounts. Degree students who are not taking courses in the fall or spring semester may register for IND 4000, Master’s Candidate or IND 6000, Doctoral Candidate in order to maintain registration. The fee for either IND 4000 or IND 6000 is the current college fee. Registration in IND 4000 is limited to four semesters total, and registration in IND 6000 is limited to six semesters total.  During the summer term, email accounts and library access will be granted for students who were registered during the preceding spring term.  Access to other services during the summer may vary. Individuals should check with the department providing the service.

 

Effective Date:  September 2017

Last Updated: September 2017

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Accreditaion

Licensure/Certification of Programs

The following is a link to the College's public disclosure indicating whether the College's programs meet state licensure/certification requirements: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/office-of-teacher-education/certification-disclosure/

 

All Teachers College programs are registered with the New York State Education Department.

Teachers College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Teacher preparation, school leadership, and school counseling programs are accredited with the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation.

A number of academic programs are accredited by specialized accrediting bodies, including:  

  • Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (Nutrition Education)
  • American Psychological Association (Counseling Psychology, Clinical Psychology and School Psychology Ph.D. programs)
  • American Speech-Hearing-Language Association (Communication Sciences and Disorders)
  • Applied Behavior Analysis International (Applied Behavior Analysis)
  • Council on Education for Public Health (Community Health Education)
  • Council on the Education of the Deaf (Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing)
  • Masters in Counseling Accreditation Council (Psychological Counseling)
  • National Association of School Psychologists (School Psychology) 

Contact information for each of the accrediting agencies listed above is available at the Office of Accreditation and Assessment: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/oaa/accreditation/specialty-professional-associations/

Responsible Office: Office of the Provost

Effective Date: May 2021

Last Updated: July 2023

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Students are expected to attend all classes for which they are registered and are responsible for absences resulting from late enrollment.  Attendance in online courses is defined as regular and substantive participation in the learning activities prescribed by the course instructor.  For courses that have face-to-face meetings and online components, both attendance at face-to-face meetings and regular and substantive participation in the online learning activities prescribed by the course instructor are required. Students who never attend a course for which they are registered will receive a grade of WN for that course, assigned by their instructor by the end of the change-of-program period. The WN grade is non-punitive but will remain on a student's transcript. A course with this grade assigned will not count towards a student's time status of Financial Aid Cost of Attendance.

 

Updated: September 2021

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Teachers College students currently enrolled for 15 or more points may audit one or two Teachers College courses during the term.  Also, fully certified doctoral candidates may audit Teachers College courses which enhance their professional interests.

Applications for auditing privileges are obtainable from the Office of the Registrar during the change-of-program period.  Students must secure the written approval of the course instructor and return the approval form to the Office of the Registrar during the change-of-program period. 

Audited courses will not appear on the transcript or fulfill any academic requirement and may not later be applied for credit.  Courses with limited enrollment, laboratory courses, seminars, continuing professional studies courses, and non-credit courses are not open to auditors.    

 

Updated: September 2017

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College Communication

Owner: Associate Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer

Official policy regarding College Communication.

 

Owner: Associate Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer

Official policy regarding College Communication.

Teachers College, recognizing the increasing need for electronic communication with students, has established email as an official means of communication with students. In order to ensure effective communication with students, students are required to activate and use the email address provided by the College.

Teachers College expects that every student will receive email at his or her Teachers College email address and will read email on a frequent and consistent basis. A student’s failure to receive Teachers College and read College communications in a timely manner does not absolve that student from knowing and complying with the content of such communications. Students may elect to redirect (auto-forward) email sent to their Teachers College email address. Students who (auto-forward) redirect email from their official College email address to another address do so at their own risk. If email is lost as a result of forwarding, it does not absolve the student from the responsibilities associated with communications sent to their official University email address. All use of email will be consistent with other Teachers College and Columbia University policies including the Acceptable Use Policy at https://my.tc.columbia.edu.

 

While most of College communications is handled through the official College email, on occasion the College will need to contact students using postal services. In addition, to be in compliance with various state and federal regulations, the College must have accurate information on the permanent residence and current location of all students. It is the responsibility of students to verify and update their addresses, as necessary, each semester.  Students may view and update their addresses through myTC under the TC Services tab – Update Addresses and Phones.  Teachers College defines the location and residence of the student as the campus address, if applicable, or the mailing address that is active on the Student Information System.    If a student does not have an active campus or mailing address, the permanent address will be considered the official location and residence of a student. 

 

Information concerning emergencies or school closing is published in several ways:

  • WINS at 1010 on AM radio;
  • WCBS at 880 on AM radio;
  • the TC Web homepage at www.tc.edu; and
  • the main telephone number, (212) 678-3000.

 

In addition to the communication methods above, emergency notifications are made through public address systems in most campus buildings and through TCAlert. All members of the TC community are strongly encouraged to sign up for TCAlert via the portal at my.tc.edu to receive text or voice messages on their cellphones. Use of this system is limited to urgent messages. The College does not charge for it, although some wireless phone carriers may charge a fee for receiving SMS text messages.

 

Responsible Office:  Associate Vice President & Chief Student Affairs Officer

Last Update: November 30, 2023

 

 

 

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Beginning in the Fall 2018 term, all students who enroll in a degree program must register for courses beginning with their initial term of entry and continuing each fall/spring term until their degree requirements have been met.  To meet the continuous enrollment requirement students must:

  1. Register for course work, or
  2. Register as a master’s candidate or doctoral candidate (each of which requires the College fee), or
  3. Request and receive a leave of absence (medical, military, or personal) according to TC’s leave policy, or
  4. Doctoral candidates who have reached a stage at which they are obligated for continuous registration will meet the requirements of the continuous enrollment policy by registering for their department’s dissertation advisement course, registering for at least 3 points of TC course work, or requesting and receiving a personal exemption or waiver according to the guidelines set forth in the appropriate doctoral student guide book

Summer registration is not required unless it is part of the program’s curriculum. Students who are in summer-only programs are not required to maintain continuous enrollment in fall and spring terms, but they must maintain summer enrollment each term.

Students must maintain an active enrollment status by selecting from option A, B, C, or D as outlined above.  Students who are unable to register in a fall or spring term must inform the College of their enrollment plan by the end of the term drop/add period or else they will be placed on an administrative leave of absence.  After being placed on administrative leave, students who do not communicate with the Office of the Registrar by the end of the term will be withdrawn from the College and will need to reapply for admission if they wish to resume their studies. Students who communicate with the Office of the Registrar before the end of the term may be eligible to request a change from administrative leave to personal leave, when applicable.

Students are permitted a total of two (2) terms of personal leave while matriculated at Teachers College.  An administrative leave will not convert to a personal leave if the student has already reached the personal leave limit of two (2) terms. 

Students should refer to the leave of absence policy for detailed information about the following areas while on leave:  academic policies, financial aid, housing, health insurance, and re-enrollment.

This continuous enrollment policy does not apply to students who have been suspended under the Student Conduct Code during the term of their suspension.

 

Original Effective Date: February 21, 2018

Modified December 18, 2020

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Some credit-bearing courses are offered also on a noncredit basis, as indicated in the course description.

Students registering for noncredit offerings do not earn academic credit.

A student who registers for a course on a noncredit basis may not change enrollment to credit once the course begins.  A student who registers for a course for credit may not change enrollment to noncredit once the course begins.

No Teachers College fee is charged if the noncredit course registration is the only course registration for the term; however, any laboratory fees or special fees for the course are additional.

Fees for noncredit offerings such as non-credit courses, workshops, institutes, and conferences vary. See the official announcement for these offerings for the tuition and fees charges.

Teachers College reserves the right to cancel or modify the courses listed in this catalog and other official publications and to change the instructors. 

 

Effective Date: March 16, 2016

Last Updated: March 16, 2016

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Credit Hour

A "point" (equivalent to a semester hour) is the College's unit of credit. The New York State Education Department1 and the U.S. Department of Education2 regulate the minimum standards for a credit hour. To meet these regulations, the following standards apply to all Teachers College courses offered for credit. These are minimum requirements; individual courses may have greater requirements as determined by the course instructor. The indicated times spent out-of-class represent averages, and some students might find it necessary to devote more time than these stated expectations. For this policy, a contact hour is defined as 50 minutes.

 

Lecture, Seminar and Other In-Person Courses

The course modality “in-person” is defined and described here: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/policylibrary/policies/course-naming-guide-11284145/

  1. A one-point course meets for 15 contact hours plus a minimum of 30 hours in student preparation and out-of-class assignments.
  2. A two-point course meets for 30 contact hours plus a minimum of 60 hours of student preparation and out-of-class assignments.
  3. A three-point course normally meets for 30 contact hours plus a minimum of 60 hours of student preparation and out-of-class assignments and an additional 45 hours spent on a supervised out-of-class project.
  4. For classes of more credit hours, the class contact hours and student preparation and out-of-class assignments are increased proportionately. A minimum of 45 hours for each additional point of credit is required in additional meeting times and/or other academic activities.
  5. For a course with a variable point option, the course syllabus must clearly differentiate the additional out-of-class work required for the additional point(s) of credit. Each additional point must involve a minimum of 45 additional hours of out-of-class work and may take the form of additional reading, preparing a term paper, engaging in a project related to the course or out-of-class group activities.

 

Externship, Fieldwork, Internship, Laboratory, Practicum, and Student Teaching Courses

  1. Hours for field-based courses must follow the same time standards as defined for in-person courses. For each credit point, a student must complete a minimum of 45 hours including actual time spent in the field experience, class meetings, and student preparation and out-of-class assignments.
  2. Hours listed for Certificates of Equivalency must be over and above the minimum number of hours required for the point value of the student's course registration.

 

Hybrid Courses

The course modality “hybrid” is defined and described here: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/policylibrary/policies/course-naming-guide-11284145/

  1. Hybrid courses must be comparable in level, scope, academic rigor and student study as for in-person lecture courses.
  2. The same credit hour requirements as described for in-person courses are required and may be achieved through meeting in-person or online following the meeting time standards established for online courses.
  3. The course instructor must document on the course syllabus the expectations for completing the minimum credit hour requirements for the credit awarded.

 

Independent Study Courses

  1. Independent study is a self-directed course of study under the guidance of an instructor.
  2. Academic credit awarded for independent study must be comparable in level, scope, academic rigor and student study as for the lecture courses.
  3. 45 hours of supervised independent research work for each credit earned.

 

Online Courses (or Distance Learning)

The course modality “online” is defined and described here: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/policylibrary/policies/course-naming-guide-11284145/

  1. Online courses must be comparable in level, scope, academic rigor and student study as for in-person lecture courses.
  2. The same credit hour requirements as described for in-person courses are required for online courses. Meeting time is satisfied through several means which can include but is not limited to regular instruction or interaction with the course instructor; academic engagement through interactive tutorials and training; group discussions moderated by the course instructor; virtual study/group projects; engagement with class peers; and other activities graded and reviewed by the course instructor.
  3. The course instructor must document on the course syllabus the expectations for completing the minimum credit hour requirements for the credit awarded.

 

Short Courses

For a course lasting one or two weeks, credit value may not exceed the number of weeks of the course.

  1. For a course of three weeks but less than six weeks, the credit value may not exceed the number of weeks of the course plus one.
  2. The same credit hour requirements must be met as outlined in the preceding sections. There must be sufficient time within the timeframe of the courses offering to satisfy the credit hour requirements.

 

[1] NYSED: “Semester hour means a credit, point or other unit granted for the satisfactory completion of course which requires at least 15 hours (of 50 minutes each) of instruction and at least 30 hours of supplementary assignments. This basic measure shall be adjusted proportionately to translate the value of other academic calendars and formats of study in relation to the credit granted for study during the two semesters that comprise an academic year.”

[2] Title IV: ”one hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class work each work for approximately 15 weeks for one semester hour of credit, or at least an equivalent amount of work as required in this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.”

 

Approvals:  Approved by FEC-APS, March 23, 2016; update approved by FEC-APS, February, 2024

Policy Owner: Academic Affairs Compliance

Effective Date: March 2016

Last Updated: April 2024

 

 

 

 

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Course instructors are responsible for setting the requirements for courses and evaluating students' work.  The grading symbols approved by the Faculty, appear below:

A+       Rare performance. Reserved for highly exceptional, rare achievement.

A         Excellent. Outstanding achievement.

A-        Excellent work but not quite outstanding.

B+       Very good. Solid achievement expected of most graduate students.

B         Good. Acceptable achievement.

B-        Acceptable achievement but below what is generally expected of graduate students.

C+       Fair achievement, above minimally acceptable level.

C         Fair achievement but only minimally acceptable.

C-        Very low performance.  The records of students receiving such grades are subject to review. This review may result in the denial of permission to register for further study at Teachers College. No more than 3 points of C- may be credited toward any degree, certificate or diploma. Students completing requirements for more than one degree or diploma may count 3 points of C- toward only one such award. Students who accumulate 8 points or more with grades of C- or lower may not continue study at the College and will not receive a degree or diploma.

F          Failure. The records of students receiving such grades are subject to review. This review may result in the denial of permission to register for further study at Teachers College. Students who accumulate 8 points or more with grades of C- or lower may not continue study at the College and will not receive a degree or diploma.  Students usually may not repeat a failed course unless it is required. When the course is required, the students may re-register and obtain a satisfactory grade. The previous F grade remains on the transcript.

P          Passed.  The “P” grade indicates passing performance in certain courses that only provide for dichotomous evaluation. Alternatively, by arrangement with the instructor as outlined in the Grading Options section below, students can request pass/fail grading in courses that normally lead to letter grades. Once an instructor submits a final pass/fail grade for a course, the transcripts of students in that course will not carry any other type of grade. The College does not issue supplementary statements on student performance in the course.

DP       Doctoral pass credit. The grade of DP may be assigned only to certified doctoral candidates who have successfully completed all requirements prescribed by the instructor. Students may receive DP credit only for courses taken in the semesters after they are certified. DP credit may not apply toward M.A. or M.S. degree requirements. A maximum of 6 points of DP credit may apply toward Ed.M. degree requirements. See section below on Grading Options for further information.

WD     Withdrawn. The WD grade indicates course withdrawal after the close of the change-of-program period during the term. 

WU     Unofficially withdrawn -- failure. The WU grade indicates that a student attended a course at least once but stopped attending that course without officially withdrawing. 

WN     Never attended. A non-punitive grade assigned by faculty at the end of the change-of-program period to indicate non-attendance. This will be equivalent to a course dropped during the change-of-program period for the purposes of Financial Aid Cost of Attendance and student time status. This course and grade will remain on a student’s transcript.

YC      Year Course. The symbol “YC’’ is assigned for the first half of a year course (courses that appear with a “z’’ suffix on the transcript). At the end of the second half of the course, the final grade, denoting the instructor’s evaluation, will appear on the transcript.

R         Attendance Credit. R grades indicate that students attended a course. Instructors who agree to grant R credit may stipulate requirements in addition to regular attendance. Courses taken through the Interuniversity Doctoral Consortium may not be taken for an R grade.  No R credit may apply toward M.A. or M.S. degrees. A maximum of 6 R credits may apply toward Ed.M. programs but not to satisfy the three-course out-of-program requirement. Finally, a maximum of 9 R credits may apply toward doctoral programs but not toward minimum distribution requirements. See section below on Grading Options for further information.

        Transfer credit awarded. The T grade is applied to transfer courses that meet minimum eligibility requirements for transfer work and that a faculty advisor has approved for credit. 

The above grades are final and may not be changed.

IN        Incomplete. The grade of Incomplete is to be assigned only when the course attendance requirement has been met but, for reasons satisfactory to the instructor, the granting of a final grade has been postponed because certain course assignments are outstanding. If the outstanding assignments are completed within one calendar year from the date of the close of term in which the grade of Incomplete was received and a final grade submitted, the final grade will be recorded on the permanent transcript, replacing the grade of Incomplete, with a transcript notation indicating the date that the grade of Incomplete was replaced by a final grade. If the outstanding work is not completed within one calendar year from the date of the close of term in which the grade of Incomplete was received, the grade will convert to a grade of F on the transcript. As with any grades earned by a student, these become a part of the student's record and are evaluated for the purposes of determining potential academic probation and/or dismissal. In such instances, if the course is a required course or part of an approved program of study, students will be required to re-enroll in the course including payment of all tuition and fee charges for the new registration and satisfactorily complete all course requirements. If the required course is not offered in subsequent terms, the student should speak with the faculty advisor or program coordinator about their options for fulfilling the degree requirement. Doctoral students with six or more credits with grades of Incomplete included on their program of study (currently the Program Plan) will not be allowed to sit for the certification exam.  

 

Grading Options

Teachers College categorizes grade options as evaluative (letter-graded on an A+ through F scale), pass/fail (P/F), doctoral pass (DP), or attendance (R).  Within the academic term of the course, students may request grade options that differ from the standard grade options that their course instructors use, but instructors have discretion to approve or deny such requests. Students may obtain applications for alternative grading options from the Office of the Registrar.  Once an alternative grade application has received approval from the course instructor and Registrar, students may not request a subsequent change of grade option. Deadlines and specific procedures for completing the applications appear below:

Pass/Fail and Evaluative Letter Grades

Students in courses that normally award pass/fail grades may request letter grades, and students in letter-graded courses may request a pass/fail option. If the instructor approves the request, the student must submit the completed application for alternative grading to the Registrar before the third class session.

Doctoral Pass

Certified doctoral candidates may request a doctoral pass (DP) grade option. If the instructor approves the request, the candidate must submit the completed application to the Registrar before two-thirds of the class sessions have met.

Attendance Credit

Students desiring attendance (R) credit must request the R option from the course instructor. If the instructor approves the request, the student must submit the completed application to the Registrar before two-thirds of the class sessions have met. Mathematics majors in the Department of Mathematics, Science and Technology must have their applications cosigned by the program coordinator.

Changes in Grades

All grades other than Incomplete are final once submitted to the Office of the Registrar.  Once final grades have been given, instructors may not change them unless errors occurred in the original transmission of grades.  A student who believes that an instructor has made a grading error should follow the procedures outlined in the Grade Correction policy: http://www.tc.columbia.edu/policylibrary/Grade Correction

Courses at Schools Other than Teachers College

Different schools and affiliates of Columbia University, as well as members of the Inter-University Doctoral Consortium, may have different policies, procedures, and deadlines on course grading and incomplete grades. Teachers College students who cross-register at other schools should note that their course work at the host school may be subject to the policies and procedures of that school and not those of Teachers College. Grades of "D" earned at these other institutions will not count toward a Teachers College degree or certificate. 

 

Last updated:   September 2021

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Students in degree programs may petition the Registrar to have an advanced undergraduate course offered at Columbia University counted as graduate credit toward the degree. To be considered for graduate credit, the courses must be beyond the general introductory level, relevant to the student’s specialty, and must not be available on the graduate level within the University. In addition, a student must obtain a written statement from the instructor of the course clarifying the additional work required in order to differentiate between undergraduate and graduate participation in the course. For basic language courses, courses must be beyond the first two years. No more than 6 points in advanced undergraduate courses may be approved for graduate credit. The advisor’s written recommendation is also required and final approval is granted by the Registrar. Petition forms may be obtained in the Office of the Registrar. Tuition charges for undergraduate courses that the Registrar approves for graduate credit or undergraduate language courses taken to fulfill the language requirement for the Ph.D. may be used to calculate students' federal financial aid awards. Undergraduate courses that fall outside of these parameters will not be factored into federal aid awards.

 

Updated: September 2017

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Curriculum and Teaching: Elementary Education-Professional Certification

0802 M.A.

Curriculum and Teaching: Secondary Education-Professional Certification

0803 M.A.

Elementary Inclusive Education-Initial Certification

0802 M.A.

Elementary Inclusive Education- Initial Certification With Gifted Extension

0802 Ed.D./ M.B.A.

Higher and Postsecondary Education

0805 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

Adult Education Guided Intensive Study (AEGIS)

0807 Ed.D.
Adult Learning and Leadership 0807 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.
†*Applied Behavior Analysis 0808 Ph.D., Ed.D.
Applied Behavior Analysis-Initial Dual Certification 0808 M.A.
*Deaf and Hard of Hearing 0808 Ed.D.

Early Childhood Education: Special Education-Initial Certification

0808 M.A

Early Childhood Education: Special Education-Initial Dual Certification

0808 M.A

Guidance and Rehabilitation

0808 M.A.

Elementary Inclusive Education-Initial Dual Certification

0808 M.A.
†*Intellectual Disability/Autism 0808 Ed.D., Ph.D.
Intellectual Disability/Autism-Initial Dual Certification 0808 M.A.

Intellectual Disability/Autism: Early Childhood- Dual Certification

0808 Ed.M.

Intellectual Disability/Autism:Childhood/Elementary- Dual Certification

0808 Ed.M.
Instructional Practice in Special Education 0808 Ed.M.

†*Physical Disabilities

Secondary Inclusive Education

0808

0808

Ed.D., Ph.D.

M.A.

Severe and Multiple Disabilities: Annotation

Special Inclusive Elementary Education

0808

0808

M.A.

M.A.

Gifted Education

0811 M.A.
Gifted Education- Initial Certification  0811 M.A.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing

0812 M.A.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing- Initial Certification 0812 M.A.

Deaf and Hearing Impaired: Adolescence Education-Dual Certification

0812 Ed.M.

Deaf and Hearing Impaired: Early Childhood Education-Initial Dual Certification

0812 Ed.M.

Deaf and Hearing Impaired: Elementary Education-Initial Dual Certification

0812 Ed.M.
Deaf Education: Reading Specialist- Initial Dual Certification 0812 Ed.M.

Communication Sciences and Disorders-Initial Certification

0815 M.S.

Communication Sciences and Disorders-Professional Certification

0815 M.S.

Communication Sciences and Disorders: Bilingual Option-Initial Certification     

0815 M.S.

Speech and Language Pathology-Bilingual Extension Institute

0815 Adv. Cert.
History and Education 0821 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.,Ph.D.
Philosophy and Education 0821 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.,Ph.D.

Applied Educational Psychology: Cognitive, Behavioral, and Developmental Analysis  

0822 Ed.M.
Cognitive Studies in Education 0822 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.
Psychology in Education 0822 M.A
Early Childhood Education  0823 M.A., Ed.M, Ed.D.

Early Childhood Education- Initial Certification

0823 M.A.
Early Childhood Education- Special Education 0823 Ed.M
Applied Statistics   0824 M.S.
School Counselor 0826.01 Ed.M

Applied Developmental and Learning Psychology-  School Psychology   

0826.02 Ed.M.
Applied Educational Psychology- School Psychology 0826.02 Ph.D.
Education Policy 0827 M.A., Ed.M., Ph.D.
Educational Leadership 0827 PH.D.
Educational Leadership Studies    0827

M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

Urban Education Leaders Program

0827 Ed.D.
Leadership, Policy and Politics   0827 Ed.D.

††Education Leadership Management  (M.B.A. through Columbia University Graduate School of Business)

0827 Ed.D.
Private School Leadership 0827 M.A., Ed.M
††Private School Leadership (M.B.A. through Columbia University Graduate School of Business) 0827 M.A.
Public School Building Leadership 0828 M.A., Ed.M.
Curriculum and Teaching 0829 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

Designing Interactive Multimedia Instruction   

0829 Adv. Cert.   
Literacy Specialist- Initial Certification 0830 M.A.
Reading Specialist- Initial Certification 0830 M.A.

Art and Art Education

0831 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ed.D.C.T.
Art and Art Education- Initial Certification    0831 M.A.

 

Creative Technologies

0831

0831

M.A.

Adv. Cert.

Music and Music Education  0832 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ed.D.C.T.
Music and Music Education- Initial Certification 0832 M.A.
Music and Music Education- Professional Certification         0832 M.A.
Mathematics Education 0833 M.A., M.S., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ed.D.C.T., Ph.D.
Science Education 0834 Ed.D., Ph.D.
Science and Dental Education 0834 M.A.
Supervisor/Teacher of Science Education 0834 M.A.
Teacher Education in Science      0834 M.S., Ed.M.
Applied Physiology 0835

M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

Kinesiology   0835 Ph.D.
Motor Learning 0835 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.
Movement Sciences and Education   0835 Ed.D
Physical Education 0835 M.A.
Physical Education- Initial Certification 0835 M.A.
Physical Education- Professional Certification  0835 M.A.
Physical Education, Curriculum and Teaching in 0835 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.
Nutrition and Exercise Physiology 0837 M.S.
Community Health Education 0837 M.S.

Diabetes Education and Management

Advanced Diabetes Topics

0837

0837

M.S.

Adv. Cert.

Health Education 0837 M.A., Ed.D
Bilingual/Bicultural Education 0899 M.A.

Bilingual/Bicultural Education Extension

0899 Adv. Cert.

Communication and Educatin

Comparative and International Education 

0899

0899

 Ed.D.

M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ph.D.

Instructional Technology and Media 0899 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

International Educational Development 

Learning Analytics 

0899

0899

M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

M.S.

Neuroscience and Education 0899 M.S.
Teaching and Learning with Technology    0899 Adv. Cert.

Technology Specialist: K-12- Initial Certification

Technology Specialist for Teachers - Initial Certification

0899.03

0899.03

M.A.

M.A.

Bilingual/Bicultural Education- Transitional B  0899.50 M.A.
Biology 7-12- Transitional B 0899.50 M.A.
Chemistry 7-12- Transitional B 0899.50 M.A.

Early Childhood Education: Special Education-Dual Certification- Transitional B

0899.50 M.A.
Earth Science 7-12- Transitional B 0899.50 M.A.

English, Teaching of- Transitional B    

Intellectual Disabilities/Autism-Childhood - Transitional B

Intellectual Disabilities/Autism-Generalist 5-9 - Transitional B

0899.50

0899.50

0899.50

M.A.

M.A.

M.A.

Mathematics Education- Transitional B 0899.50 M.A.
Physics 7-12- Transitional B      0899.50 M.A.
TESOL- Transitional B 0899.50 M.A.

Art and Art Education-Professional Certification

Arts Administration

1002

1099

M.A.

M.A.

Nurse Executive Role (Accelerated Program) 1203.10 M.A.
Nurse Executive Role (Accelerated Program) 1203.10 Ed.D.

Nursing Education: Professorial Role (Accelerated Program)

Nursing Educaiton (Distance Learning)

1203.10

1203.10

M.A.

Ed.D., Adv. Cert.

 

Communication Sciences and Disorders 1220 M.S., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ph.D.
Community Nutrition Education 1306 Ed.M.
Nutrition and Public Health 1306 M.S., Ed.D
Nutrition Education  1306 M.S., Ed.D
English, Teaching of 1501 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.C.T., Ed.D.
English Education 1501 Ph.D.
English, Teaching of- Initial Certification     1501.01 M.A.
English, Teaching of- Professional Certification 1501.01 M.A.

Applied Linguistics

1505

M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

Communication and Education

1506

M.A., Ed.M.

TESOL (Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages)

1508 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.
TESOL- Initial Certification 1508 M.A.
     
Mathematics Education- Initial Certification    1701.01 M.A.
Mathematics Education- Professional Certification      1701.01 M.A.,M.S., Ed.M.
Arts Administration  1899 M.A.
Physics 7-12- Initial Certification 1902.01 M.A.

Chemistry 7-12- Initial Certification 

Earth Science 7-12- Initial Certification

1905.01

1917.01

M.A.

M.A.

Clinical Psychology 2003 Ph.D.
Counseling Psychology 2004 Ph.D.
Psychological Counseling 2004 Ed.M.
Mental Health Counseling   2004 Ed.M.

Social-Organizational Psychology

Cooperation and Conflict Resolution

2005

2005

Ph.D.

Adv. Cert.

Measurement and Evaluation 2007 Ed.M., Ed.D., Ph.D.
Psychology-Organizational 2008 M.A.
Developmental Psychology 2009 Ph.D.

Psychology:Developmental

Sexuality, Women and Gender

2009

2099

M.A.

Adv. Cert.

Teaching of Social Studies

Global Competence

2201

2201

M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ph.D.

Adv. Cert.

Social Studies, Teaching of- Initial Certification 2201.01 M.A.
Social Studies, Teaching of- Professional Certification 2201.01 M.A.
Applied Anthropology (In Cooperation with GSAS) 2202 Ph.D.
Anthropology and Education 2202 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ph.D.
Economics and Education 2204 M.A., Ed.M., Ph.D.
Politics and Education 2207 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ph.D.
Sociology and Education 2208 M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D., Ph.D.

Interdisciplinary Studies in Education

Design and Development of Digital Games

4999

5503

M.A., Ed.M., Ed.D.

M.A.

*   Ed.D. in Special Education is acquired through these programs.
†   Ph.D. in Special Education is acquired through these programs.
††  Joint M.B.A. offered by Columbia School of Business.
** HEGIS: Higher Education General Information Survey, New York State Education Department, Office of Higher Education and the Professions, Cultural Education Center, Room 5B28, Albany, NY 12230; telephone (518) 475-5851.
 
Effective Date:
Last Updated: June 2017

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Teachers College participates in the Inter-University Doctoral Consortium which provides for cross-registration among member institutions. Fully admitted doctoral students after the first year of study in Teachers College may register for courses at the Graduate School and University Center of the City University of New York, Fordham University, Princeton University, the New School for Social Research, New York University, Rutgers University, and Stony Brook University. Ordinarily, such courses must not be available within Columbia University. Applications are available in the Office of the Registrar. Students cross-registered for courses at another university are subject to the academic regulations of the host university, including the grading system, calendar, and academic honor system. It is the responsibility of the students to familiarize themselves with the pertinent regulations of the host university. Teachers College students pay tuition at the standard Teachers College rate to Teachers College for any such courses they take.

 

Effective Date:

Last Updated: June 2017

View the full policy

The prefix indicates the department:

  • A&H Arts & Humanities
  • BBS Biobehavioral Sciences
  • CCP Counseling & Clinical Psychology
  • C&T Curriculum & Teaching
  • EDP Education Policy and Social Analysis
  • HBS Health & Behavior Studies
  • HUD Human Development
  • IND Interdepartmental
  • ITS International & Transcultural Studies
  • MST Mathematics, Science & Technology
  • ORL Organization & Leadership

 

The first digit of the course number indicates course level:

  • 4 initial graduate
  • 5 intermediate graduate
  • 6 advanced graduate
  • 7 dissertation seminar
  • 8 dissertation advisement
  • 9 postdoctoral

 

The second digit of the course numbers indicates the type of offering:

  • 0 lecture
  • 1 lecture
  • 2 field work
  • 3 practicum
  • 4 internship
  • 5 seminar
  • 6 colloquium
  • 7 student teaching
  • 8 workshop, work conference, or institute
  • 9 independent study and research

 

Effective Date:

Last Updated: June 2017

View the full policy

NON-DISCRIMINATION NOTICE

Non Discrimination

General Non-Discrimination policy.

Owner: Diversity & Community Affairs

Notice of Non-Discrimination.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin (including language and ancestry). Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin. The Civil Rights Act of 1991 and the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 amends several sections of Title VII.

 Teachers College (“TC” or the “College”) is committed to providing a working, learning, and living environment free from discrimination and harassment and to fostering a vibrant, nurturing community founded upon the fundamental dignity and worth of all of its members.

Consistent with this commitment, Teachers College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, height, weight, marital or partnership status, citizenship or immigration status, caste, military status, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other legally protected status in the administration of its admissions policies, educational policies, employment, scholarship, loan, and other College-administered programs; treatment, or in access to College programs or activities.

Students with concerns about possible discrimination may wish to speak with Associate Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer for Student Affairs Tom Rock, 528 West 121st St., Room 163, (212) 678-3083, Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs Janice S. Robinson, 128 Zankel, (212) 678-3391, or confidentially to the Ombuds Officer Nancy Lesko, 280 Grace Dodge, (212) 678-4169. 

Faculty and staff with concerns about possible discrimination may wish to speak with Robyn Davis-Mahoney, Assistant Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, 120 Whittier Hall, (212) 678-3740, Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs Janice S. Robinson, 128 Zankel, (212) 678-3391, or confidentially to the Ombuds Officer Nancy Lesko, 280 Grace Dodge, (212) 678-4169. 

Individuals may also seek assistance outside the TC community:

US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (New York Office)

(646) 428-3900

(800) 877-8339 voice/TDD

 OCR.NewYork@eg.gov

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

(800) 669-4000

(800) 669-6820 (TTY for Deaf/Hard of Hearing callers only)

(844) 234-5122 (ASL Video Phone for Deaf/Hard of Hearing callers only)

info@eeoc.gov

 

NYS Division of Human Rights

complaints@dhr.ny.gov

https://dhr.ny.gov/complaint

 

NYC Commission on Human Rights

(718) 722-3131

Online form: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/cchr/about/report-discrimination.page

https://www1.nyc.gov/site/cchr/about/contact-us.page

 

Sex Discrimination

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) protects individuals from sex discrimination in educational programs and activities at institutions that receive federal financial assistance.

 

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding discrimination including Title IX & Title VI (ancestry & religion)

Janice S. Robinson

jrobinson@tc.columbia.edu

Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs

TC Title IX Coordinator

128 Zankel

(212) 678-3391

 

Age Discrimination

Age Discrimination Act of 1975, which prohibits discrimination based on age.

 

Religion

U.S. Department of Homeland Security regulation 6 C.F.R. Part 19, which prohibits discrimination based on religion in social service programs.

 

Disability Discrimination

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) protect students and employees from disability discrimination.

 

The following people have been designated to handle inquiries regarding Section 504/ADA:

Allison N. Antwi

ana2172@tc.columbia.edu

Assistant Vice President for Equity and Compliance;

TC Section 504 Compliance Officer

128 Zankel

(212) 678-7508

 

Juan Carlos Reyes

jcr2101@tc.columbia.edu

Executive Director, Office of the VP for Diversity and Community Affairs

Deputy Section 504 Compliance Officer

128 Zankel

(212) 678-8410

 Pay Transparency. Teachers College will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.  However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the College or (c) consistent with the College’s legal duty to furnish information.

 Responsible Office: Office of the Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs

Last Updated: August 27, 2024

 If you have questions or comments about the Policy Library, please send them to  policies@tc.edu.

 

View the full policy

The following programs meet the educational requirements for teacher certification or professional licensure in New York State. If you plan to work in a state other than New York, Teachers College has not made a determination if our programs meet the educational requirements for certification or professional licensure in any other state, Washington DC or Puerto Rico. We recommend that you review the state’s licensing board or teacher certification website for that state’s qualifications. The Office of Teacher Education will complete any necessary forms and/or letters for out-of-state certification on the completion of your approved teacher preparation program.

CERT-ABAL Certificate-Applied Behavior Analysis Professional Licensure
CERT-BILG-EX Certificate-Bilingual/Bicultural Education Extension Teacher Certification
CERT-BLGD-EX Certificate-Bilingual/Bicultural Education Extension Distance Learning Teacher Certification
CERT-SPTB-IN Certificate-Bilingual Extension Institute Teacher Certification
CERT-SPTD-IN Certificate-Bilingual Extension Institute DL Teachert Certification
EDD-ELUE Doctor of Education-Urban Education Leaders Program Teacher Certification
MA-ABAS-DU Master of Arts-Applied Behavior Analysis-Dual Teacher Certification
MA-ARTE-IN Master of Arts -Art and Art Education Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ARTE-PF Master of Arts-Art and Art Education Professional Certification Teacher Certification
MA-BILC-DU Master of Arts-Bilingual/Bicultural Education Dual Teacher Certification
MA-BILC-TR Master of Arts-Bilingual/Bicultural Childhood Education Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-BILG-EX Master of Arts-Bilingual/Bicultural Education Extension Teacher Certification
MA-BILS-DU Master of Arts-Bilingual/Bicultural Education Special Education Dual Teacher Certification
MA-CUED-PF Master of Arts-Elementary Education Professional Certification Teacher Certification
MA-CUSD-PF Master of Arts-C&T Secondary Education Professional Certification Teacher Certification
MA-CUSE-IN Master of Arts-Secondary Inclusive Education Teacher Certification
MA-DHEA-IN Master of Arts-Deaf and Hard of Hearing Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ECED-IN Master of Arts-Early Childhood Educaiton Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ECED-IX Master of Arts-Early Childhood Education Education Initial Cert Bilingual Teacher Certification
MA-ECSE-DU Master of Arts-Early Childhood Education-Special Education Dual Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ECSE-DX Master of Arts Early Childhood Education Special Ed Dual Cert Bilingual Teacher Certification
MA-ECSE-IN Master of Arts-Early Childhood Education-Special Education Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ECSE-IX Master of Arts-Early Childhood Education Special Ed Initial Cert Bilingual Teacher Certification
MA-ELBL-IN Master of Arts-Public School Building Leadership Teacher Certification
MA-ELEM-DU Master of Arts-Elementary Inclusive Education-Dual Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ELEM-IN Master of Arts-Elementary Inclusive Education Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ELGF-DU Master of Arts-Elementary Inclusive Education Initial/Gifted Extension Teacher Certification
MA-ENGL-IN Master of Arts -Teaching of English Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ENGL-PF Master of Arts - Teaching of English Professional Certification Teacher Certification
MA-ENGl-TR Master of Arts-Teaching of English Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-GIFT-EX Master of Arts-Gifted Education-Extension Teacher Certification
MA-ITDA-IN Master of Arts-Intellectual Disabilities/Autism-Adolescence-Initial Teacher Certification
MA-ITDC-TR Master of Arts-Intellectual Disabilities/Autism Childhood Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-ITDG-TR Master of Arts-Intellect Disabilities/Autism Midd Generalist Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-ITDS-DU Master of Arts-Intellectual Disabilities/Autism-Dual Teacher Certification
MA-LITI-IN Master of Arts-Literacy Specialist Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-MATH-IN Master of Arts-Mathematical Education Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-MATH-PF Master of Arts-Mathematical Education Professional Certificationq Teacher Certification
MA-MATH-TR Master of Arts-Mathematical Education Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-MULT-AN Master of Arts-Severe and Multiple Disabilities - Annotation Teacher Certification
MA-MUSC-IN Master of Arts-Music and Music Education Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-MUSC-PF Master of Arts-Music and Music Education Professional Certification Teacher Certification
MA-PHED-IN Master of Arts-Physical Education Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-PHED-PF Master of Arts-Physical Education Professional Certification Teacher Certification
MA-READ-IN Master of Arts-Reading Specialist Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-SCIB-IN Master of Arts -Biology 7-12 Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-SCIB-TR Master of Arts-Biology 7-12 Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-SCIC-IN Master of Arts-Chemistry 7-12 Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-SCIC-TR Master of Arts-Chemistry 7-12 Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-SCIE-IN Master of Arts-Earth Science 7-12 Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-SCIE-TR Master of Arts-Earth Science 7-12 Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-SCIP-IN Master of Arts-Physics 7-12 Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-SCIP-TR Master of Arts-Physics 7-12 Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-SIEE-IN Master of Arts-Special Inclusive Elementary Education-Initial Teacher Certification
MA-SSTE-IN Master of Arts-Teaching of Social Studies Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-SSTE-PF Master of Arts-Teaching of Social Studies Professional Certification Teacher Certification
MA-SSTE-TR Master of Arts-Teaching of Social Studies Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-TESL-IN Master of Arts -TESOL Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-TESL-TR Master of Arts-TESOL Transitional B Teacher Certification
MA-TETS-IN Master of Arts-Technology Specialist Initial Certification Teacher Certification
MA-TETT-IN Master of Arts-Technology for Teacherst Initial Certification Teacher Certification
ME-COUB Master of Education-School Counselor (Distance Learning) Teacher Certification
ME-COUM Master of Education-Mental Health Counseling Professional Licensure
ME-COUM-BL Master of Education-Mental Health Counseling Bilingual Latino/a Professional Licensure
ME-COUS Master of Education-School Counselor Teacher Certification
ME-DHAE-DU Master of Education: Deaf Hard of Hearing Adolescence Education Dual Certification Teacher Certification
ME-DHCI-DU Master of Education: Deaf Hard of Hearing Elementary Education Dual Certification Teacher Certification
ME-DHEI-DU Master of Education: Deaf Hard of Hearing Early Childhood Education Dual Cert Teacher Certification
ME-DHRI-DU Master of Education: Deaf Hard of Hearing Reading Specialist Teacher Certification
ME-ITDE-DU Master of Education-Intellectual Disabilities/Autism Early Childhood-Dual Teacher Certification
ME-MUSC-IN Master of Education-Music and Music Education Initial Certification Teacher Certification
ME-SPSM Master of Education-Applied Devel Learning Psychology-School Psychology Teacher Certification
MS-CSDB-DU Master of Science-Communication Sciences and Disorders Bilingual Extension Dual Teacher Certification/Professional Licensure
MS-CSDR Master of Science- Communication Sciences and Disorders Professional Licensure
MS-CSDR-IN Master of Science- Communication Sciences and Disorders Initial Certification Teacher Certification/Professional Licensure
MS-CSDR-PF Master of Science-Communication Sciences and Disorders Professional Certification Teacher Certification/Professional Licensure
PHD-CLIN Doctor of Philosophy-Clinical Psychology Professional Licensure
PHD-COUN Doctor of Philosophy-Counseling Psychology Professional Licensure
PHD-COUN-BL Doctor of Philosophy-Counseling Psychology Bilingual Latino/a Professional Licensure
PHD-SPSD Doctor of Philosophy-Applied Educational Psychology: School Psychology Teacher Certification/Professional Licensure

The College regards the student’s transcript as a personal and private document; it is released only upon written authorization of the student. Unpaid financial obligations to the College will result in the withholding of student transcript and/or diploma. Teachers College does not duplicate copies of transcripts from other institutions which were submitted in support of the applicant’s application for admission to the College.

 

Effective Date: January 2015

Last Updated: January 2015

View the full policy

It is the policy of Teachers College to respect its members’ observance of their
major religious holidays.  Where academic scheduling conflicts prove unavoidable,
students will not be penalized for absences due to religious reasons, and course
instructors will work with students on alternative means for satisfying academic
requirements.  If students and instructors cannot reach a suitable arrangement, they
should consult the appropriate Program Director or Department Chair.  If necessary,
students or instructors may take the matter to the Office of the Provost for additional
appeal.

Some of the major holidays occurring during the academic year are:  Ramadan, Good
Friday, Eid al Fitr, Passover (first two and last two days), Rosh Hashanah, Shemini
Atzeret, Shavuoth, Eid al Adha, Yom Kippur, Sukkot (first two days), Simchat Torah,
and Diwali.

Jewish and Islamic holy days begin at sundown of the preceding day.
The Office of the Provost and Dean of the College requests that faculty members who
will miss classes for religious observances notify their Department Chair in advance. 
They should also announce missed class sessions on their syllabi. In such cases,
faculty members may either make arrangements for another course instructor to cover
the missed class or schedule a makeup session at a time convenient to students. 

Responsible Office: Provost
Last Updated March 25, 2016
Last Edited February 2024

View the full policy

Introduction

The College seeks to promote both the academic progress and personal well-being of our students. Sometimes balancing the pressures of academics, family, health related concerns and finances can lead to coping difficulties. Teachers College (TC) is committed to support the psychological wellness of its students by promoting the principles of TC CARES (Connect, Assess, Respond, Educate and Support), by identifying, engaging, and by assisting students who may be facing personal and/or academic concerns.

Now, more than ever, academic settings must offer holistic support to students, designed to ensure that they are aware of the resources and support that may allow them to thrive. This Student Psychological Wellness Policy outlines an approach to educate and promote discussion about student well-being, focusing on strategies to keep emotional balance while meeting the demands of graduate school. Further, it aims to provide support and resources to prevent harm to self and to others, threats, disruptions, and violence. It also outlines procedures for crisis intervention and response. All members of the College community are expected to promote a healthy and violence-free environment.

 

Policy Statement

Teachers College (TC) recognizes that psychological well-being allows students to better cope with the stresses of work and study, maintain healthy relationships, and better contribute to the campus community professionally and personally.

The College takes a sensitive and informed approach to student well-being and is committed to ensuring the student body is aware of and is responsive to the needs of students who have, or who are at risk of developing a wellness concern.

 

Principles

The College supports the needs of those who are currently well by focusing on three fundamental principles:

  • Education
  • Prevention
  • Resources

 

Educational programming helps members of the College community promote students’ well-being and self-care. Workshops, educational groups, and publications address issues such as general principles of well-being, stress management, depression, anxiety, and similar topics related to overall student well-being and success.

Programming is provided through many avenues at Teachers College including through the Office of Graduate Student Life & Development (GSLD), Residential Services (ORS), Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS), The Office of Access for Students and Individuals with Disabilities (OASID), The Office of Diversity and Community Affairs (ODCA), The Office of Student Support & Advocacy (SSA) and Columbia University’s Offices of Health Services and Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS). Programming is also offered throughout each academic year to faculty and staff to ensure that those working with students are aware of the resources available to assist students in the best way possible.

The College offers students first-hand resources such as orientation and support, assistance with navigating and accessing resources/providers, well-being programming, workshops, educational and support groups, and publications. The College offers education about student well-being, self-care and ways to prevent self-harm. If a student wants to request support or if a TC community member (faculty/staff/student) would like to refer a student of concern, they can complete a TC CARES REFERRAL FORM and a member of the Office of Student Support & Advocacy and/or a member of the TC CARES Team will connect with the student to schedule a support meeting.

The Office of Student Support & Advocacy (SSA) at TC offers voluntary services to the TC community. The College has a case management process to provide check-ins for students where there is an identified concern.  The check-ins may be performed by a member of the Office of Student Support & Advocacy (SSA) or a TC CARES Team member.  During support meetings, students will be connected with resources/support that may help them to be successful at TC.

All members of the Teachers College community are invited and encouraged to submit a TC CARES REFERRAL FORM to report a student of concern or utilize resources listed below for advice and assistance to support students.

Additionally, Teachers College is committed to accommodating qualified students who have disabilities, including psychiatric or emotional disabilities. Students seeking accommodations should contact the Office of Access and Services for Individuals with Disabilities (OASID), 301 Zankel Hall-3rd floor, Tel/Voice: (212) 678-3689, oasid@tc.edu. 

 

Crisis Response & Intervention

The early identification of persons at risk for self-harm or harm to others is essential. Immediate help should be sought if someone has spoken about experiencing suicidal ideations, or a suicide plan; being a victim of other violence, or if someone has expressed ideations and/or a plan to hurt someone. Student Affairs in collaboration with the Office of Public Safety has created the TC CARES initiative, which has formed key members of the college to be part of the TC CARES Team, in an effort to assist faculty and staff in identifying and supporting students who may be in distress and in need of assistance with issues associated with their well-being. This includes immediate assistance along with referrals and other resources.

IN AN EMERGENCY, contact one of the following immediately. All are available 24/7.

 

On-Campus

TC Office of Public Safety

(212) 678-3333 or x3333

Off-Campus

NYC Police Department

 

-or-

 

Mount Sinai - Morningside Emergency Room

911

 

113th St & Amsterdam Ave

General: (212) 523-4000

Emergency: (212) 523-3335

Psychiatric Emergency: (212) 523-3347

 

Additionally, Columbia Health has a 24/7 Mental Health Support Line that operates under the Counseling and Psychological Services phone number after office hours and on any other day that the offices are closed, such as weekends and holidays. Any Teachers College student can reach out to a counselor on-call directly at (212) 854-2878.  TC Community members can also reach out to (212)-854-2878 if they would like to process a situation regarding a student with a counselor.

 

In less urgent situations, the resources below are available.

Please note that CU/CPS Center staff provides consulting services to Teachers College personnel on issues related to suicide and threats of violence. College faculty or staff who are concerned about issues relating to suicide or threats of violence may call the office at any time at (212) 854-2878.

 

Columbia Counseling & Psychological Services Center

8th Floor, Lerner Hall (115th Street & Broadway)

Appointments and After-Hours Support (212) 854-2878

http://www.health.columbia.edu/docs/services/cps/index.html

Hours M-Th 8 to 6:30; F 8 to 5

Office of Residential Services

1st Floor, Whittier Hall

(212) 678-3235 (phone)

Or contact any Community Assistant or other Residential Services Administrator

Associate Vice President & Chief Student Affairs Officer

Thomas P. Rock, Associate Vice President & Chief Student Affairs Officer

525 West 120th Street, Bldg. 528-Room 163

(212) 678-3083

Office of Student Support & Advocacy

525 West 120th St., Bldg. 528-Room 166

(212) 678-3619

Submit TC CARES REFERRAL FORM to set up a meeting or email studentsupport@tc.columbia.edu

 

Information Sharing

It will be disclosed and explained to students receiving support from a member of our team that meetings are for the purpose of obtaining information on concrete well-being resources and are not necessarily confidential appointments.  We will strive to protect students' privacy. Still, our team may share some information regarding the student with the Student Affairs leadership team, or the TC CARES team for the purpose of assisting in connecting the student to appropriate resources.  A student requesting an appointment for student support should keep in mind that this request does not indicate an interest or need for ongoing mental health services.

 

Information Disclosures

If the College believes that the safety of a student, or of any other person, is at risk, the College may contact family members, individuals a student has identified as emergency contacts, or others as the College deems necessary or appropriate under the circumstances. Consistent with U.S. Department of Education guidelines, pertinent student education records may be disclosed to appropriate officials in a health or safety emergency.

More detailed procedures for follow-up actions will be determined by the TC CARES TEAM or Emergency Response Team (ERT) protocol.

 

Related Policies

Nothing in this Policy precludes the College from addressing student behavior through the Student Conduct Code, residential contracts, and other policies. For example, if a resident student's behavior interferes with the rights of others, the student may be removed from campus housing or may be required to comply with conditions established by the Office of Residential Services to continue living on campus. Other actions may be taken as outlined in the Housing Contract.

 

Annual Review

Student Affairs is responsible for the annual review of this policy, in collaboration with the Office of Student Support & Advocacy (SSA).

 

Responsible office: Associate Vice President + Chief Student Affairs Officer

Last Updated: July 2023

 



View the full policy

  1. General Background

    1. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) gives “students” a right of access to their "education records.” It also limits the disclosure of a student's education records by the College without the student's written permission.

    2. Under this policy, “students” are individuals who are or were registered students in attendance at Teachers College.  Persons who unsuccessfully applied for admission or who were accepted but never attended the College are not “students.” An unsuccessful applicant for admission to the College is not a College "student," even if the applicant is, or was, in attendance at another Columbia University school.

    3. Records Covered:

      1. A student’s "education records" include records, files, documents, and other materials regularly maintained by the College that contain information directly related to the student.

      2. Certain types of records are excluded from the scope of FERPA. For example, a student is not entitled to examine:

        1. Records maintained personally by an individual faculty member that have not been shared with and are not accessible by others.

        2. Records created or maintained by a physician, psychologist, or other recognized health care provider that are created, maintained, or used only in connection with the provision of treatment to the student and are not available to anyone other than persons providing such treatment.

        3. Records that are confidential as a matter of law, such as those that might be maintained by the College's attorneys. 

        4. Records containing financial information about a student’s parents, such as information submitted with an application for financial aid.

        5. Records made and maintained by the College’s law enforcement unit for law enforcement purposes.

  2. Maintenance of Education Records

    A student’s official academic record is maintained by the Registrar, and its use is carefully controlled. Official records include the transcript, certain documents submitted in support of admission to the College and degree programs, and the doctoral student’s record maintained by the Office of Doctoral Studies.  Documents may be kept in digital form.  In accordance with established records management procedures, some records are purged periodically.

    Teachers College students, alumni and former students may inspect their student records in accordance with FERPA. With the exceptions set out below, such records are generally not available to anyone other than College representatives with an institutional reason for reviewing them. Transcripts and other student records are released only in accordance with the College’s FERPA policy.

  3. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Statement

    FERPA affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:

    1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the College receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Registrar a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. The student must bring valid photo identification to the appointment. Students will not be provided with copies of any part of their records other than the College transcript unless the inability to obtain copies of any part of their record other than the transcript would effectively prevent them from exercising their right to inspect and review their education records.

    2. The right to request the amendment of any parts of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.  If the College decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of the right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Further information regarding the student’s request for an amendment and the hearing procedures can be found in Section D. below.

    3. The right to withhold consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information (“PII”) contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.  It shall be a condition of the College’s disclosure of PII to a third party (1) that the party to which the information is released will not permit any other party to have access to such information without the written consent of the student and (2) that the released information may be used only for the purposes for which the disclosure was made. These conditions do not apply to certain subpoenas and court orders.

      Under FERPA, records containing PII may be disclosed without a student’s consent as follows:

      1. To “School Officials” with legitimate educational interests. A “School Official” includes a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position; public safety officials, members of the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or admission committee, or assisting another School Official in performing their tasks for the College. In addition, a School Official may be a contractor who performs an institutional service or function for which the College would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the College with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records such as an attorney, auditor or collection agent.  A School Official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill their professional responsibilities for the College.

      2. Upon request and in the discretion of the Registrar, to officials of another school in which the student seeks or intends to enroll. 

      3. To authorized representatives of the U.S. Controller General, Attorney General, or Secretary of Education, or to State and local educational authorities.  Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the FERPA requirements, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal or State-supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs.  These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf. 

      4. In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or received, if the information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, the amount of the aid, or the conditions of the aid; or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid.

      5. To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the College, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs: or (c) improve instruction.

      6. To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.

      7. To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena.

      8. If designated as “directory information.” The College has designated the following categories of information as “directory information” with respect to each student: name, mailing, campus and permanent addresses, photo, email address, Columbia University Network ID (UNI), degree program and major field of study, dates of attendance at the College, full-time, half-time or part-time status, degrees conferred and their dates, dissertation title and dissertation committee members and master’s essay title and sponsor. A student who does not wish to have directory information released to third parties should notify the Office of the Registrar in writing of their wish to withhold such information in the future.

      9. Under limited circumstances, to a victim of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or sex offense.  The disclosure may only include the final results of the disciplinary proceeding with respect to that alleged crime or offense, regardless of the finding.

      10. Under limited circumstances, to the general public, the final results of a disciplinary proceeding, if the College determines the student has committed a violation of the College’s rules or policies with respect to the allegation against the student.

      11. To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency subject to the provisions of the Regulations.

      12. To parents of a student under the age of 21 regarding the student’s violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or of any rule or policy of the College, the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance if the College determines the student committed a disciplinary violation.

    4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the College to comply with FERPA. More information about FERPA is available at www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa. FERPA is administered by:

      Family Policy Compliance Office
      U.S. Department of Education
      400 Maryland Avenue, SW
      Washington, DC 20202-8520

  4. Right to Seek Amendment of the Contents of Education Records

    Students have the right to seek amendment of the education records that they believe to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of their privacy rights under FERPA. The process includes the right to a hearing if the outcome of the challenge is unsatisfactory and the right to submit an explanatory statement for inclusion in the education record if the outcome of the hearing is unsatisfactory.

    Important note: This amendment procedure may be used only to challenge facts that are inaccurately recorded by the College since FERPA was intended to require only that schools conform to fair recordkeeping practices. This amendment procedure may not be used to challenge an academic grade, performance evaluation, disciplinary decision/ruling, opinion, or other substantive decision made by the College about a student.

    A student who wishes to challenge the contents of their education records should first discuss the matter with the College official who has control over the records in question.

    1. If the matter cannot be resolved within seven (7) days, the student may submit a written request to the Registrar, who will respond within seven (7) days. The written request to the Office of the Registrar must clearly identify the part of the record(s) they want changed and why it is inaccurate.

    2. If the outcome is unsatisfactory to the student, the College will advise the student of the right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. The student then may submit a written request for a hearing to the Vice Provost for Student Affairs. A hearing will be conducted, within forty-five (45) days of the request, by the Vice Provost or by another College official who does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.  The student will be informed of the date, time, and place of the hearing in advance of the hearing.

    3. The student will be entitled to present evidence at the hearing and be assisted by an adviser of their choice, at their own expense. If the student desires to have an adviser present, the student must notify the hearing officer of this fact, in writing, no later than two (2) business days before the hearing. An adviser is to be a member of the Teachers College community. The adviser serves as a support person and is intended to be of direct assistance to the student before and during the hearing. The adviser may not speak for the student or address the hearing officer during the hearing.

    4. Within 30 days after the hearing, a written decision based on the evidence presented at the hearing will be issued, which will be the College's final decision. If the amendment to the records that the student requested is denied, the student may place a statement in their records commenting on the accuracy of the information in the record and/or explaining their disagreement with the College. This statement will become part of the education record and will be disclosed whenever the contested portion of the education record is disclosed.

  5. Student Requests for Release of Records

    Upon written request by a student, the College may release information in that student’s Teachers College education records to third parties. The student should make a request for such release in writing with the student’s signature to the Registrar.   The third-party designated by the student will ordinarily not be provided with copies of any part of the student’s record other than the College transcript. The College may impose a charge for copying a student’s records in connection with such a release, generally 20 cents per page.   Transcripts are covered by a one-time fee paid by students upon registration.  Questions should be referred to the College Registrar, Megan Massaro, at mrm2276@tc.columbia.edu.

 

Updated:  April 2021

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The following notations will be placed on transcripts on or after September 1, 2015.

Permanent - remain in perpetuity

  1. “Expelled after a finding of responsibility for a code of conduct violation” – for sexual violence or  another crime reportable under the Clery Act.
  2. “Dean's Hold” - for disciplinary expulsions that do not require the notation above.  
  3. “Readmission subject to academic/administrative review: Academic Scholarship” - for academic dismissal when student receives 8 credits or more of C- or lower.


Temporary

  1. “Suspended after a finding of responsibility for a code of conduct violation” – student has been temporarily suspended for sexual violence or another crime reportable under the Clery Act.
  2. “Disciplinary Suspension” - student has been temporarily suspended for reason(s) that do not require the notation above.
  3. “Academic Suspension” - student has been temporarily suspended for lack of progress to degree.
  4. “Withdrawal with pending disciplinary action” – student withdrew while disciplinary charge for sexual violence or another crime reportable under the Clery Act are pending.  


In the 4 temporary categories, after a two-year period of absence, the student would be withdrawn as "Failed to Graduate," but the temporary category transcript notation would remain.  "Failed to Graduate" would not appear on the transcript.   If the student is allowed to register again at the College, the temporary notation would be removed.

Removal of Temporary Transcript Notations
Students may request removal of a temporary notation by petitioning the Vice Provost for Student Affairs.  This request must be in writing and include the rational for the request.  The Vice Provost for Student Affairs, or his or her designee, will review the request and provide a written response within 30 days from the date the request was received.  

Revision Note:  Adopted [September 1, 2015] to comply with NYS Education Law 129-B.

 

Effective Date: September 1, 2015

Updated: September 2017

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Students may apply for transfer credit upon acceptance at Teachers College.  Transfer credit is based on graduate coursework completed at another institution  prior to enrolling at Teachers College that is then applied toward a Teachers College degree. 

Eligibility for transfer credit depends on the student’s Teachers College program:

Program

Maximum possible transfer credits

Certificate/Advanced Certificate

None

Master of Arts

None

Master of Science program requiring fewer than 60 credits

None

Master of Science program requiring 60 credits or more.

30

Master of Education 

30

Doctor of Philosophy

30; 45 for graduate work completed entirely at another Columbia University school.

Doctor of Education

45

Doctor of Education in the College Teaching of an Academic Subject

45

 

Transfer credit may be awarded only for graduate courses that have been

(1) completed with grades of B or higher,

(2) submitted on an official transcript from a regionally accredited institution,

(3) granted/assigned graduate credit on the transcript of that institution,

(4) not applied toward a baccalaureate degree, and

(5) completed prior to enrollment at Teachers College. 

 

For educational institutions outside of the United States or Canada, a course-by course evaluation is required by World Education Services (WES) as per the policy on admission.

Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the Transfer Credit Coordinator and the student's faculty advisor.

For more information please refer to the "Degree Requirements" section of the Catalog, visit the  transfer credit website , or e-mail the Transfer Credit Coordinator at TCTransfer@tc.edu.

 

Updated:  June 2022

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Visiting Scholars Program

Teachers College (“the College” or “TC”) benefits from the presence of many visitors who contribute to the intellectual life of the College. Although these individuals do not hold academic appointments at the TC, they are welcomed to visit the College for a period of no less than one month, but no longer than one year to collaborate with a specific TC faculty member or the director of a center/institute on scholarly research, as well as participate in a wide range of College activities. To accommodate the needs of these individuals and recognize their contributions to the College’s intellectual life, the Vice Provost for Academic Planning and Global Affairs confers visiting scholar status in accordance with the policy and process described below.

The Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS) oversees the Visiting Scholars program, providing administrative and programmatic support to scholars and host departments during the approved visit dates.

Eligibility

Individuals may be designated visiting scholars for no less than one month and for no longer than one year and must be in residence for the approved period of designation. For the purpose of this policy, “in residence” refers to a commuting radius within 150 miles of TC. Visiting scholar status is generally reserved for individuals who hold a doctorate or other terminal degree and fall into one or more of the following categories:

  • Scholars from a regionally accredited institution of higher education in the U.S. or its equivalent in another country who are on leave from said institutions
  • Current and former officials of governments or NGOs, such as the United Nations, and their affiliates
  • Practicing professionals, creative artists and recognized experts in the field
  • Other persons whom the Vice Provost determines will contribute to intellectual life at TC

Ineligibility

Please be aware that the following are ineligible for visiting scholar status:

  • F-1 or J-1 degree candidates at the College or any Columbia University (CU) affiliates
  • Current doctoral students and candidates at a regionally accredited institution within the U.S., or its equivalent from a non-U.S. country*
  • A visitor who is being invited to offer temporary services such as a short term lecture or teaching.
  • TC employees

*Doctoral students or candidates interested in visiting the College should consider applying to the Visiting Doctoral Students program.

Status & Privileges

A designation of “visiting scholar” comes with the following privileges, subject to the discretion of the Vice Provost:

  • TC ID card and University Network ID (UNI)1
    • Grants access to TC facilities and electronic resources, including an official College g-mail account
  • Access to TC and CU libraries with some restrictions during periods of examination and/or special events
  • Ability to audit classes with the instructor’s permission2
  • Ability to attend open lectures and programs
  • Participation in TC scholarly activities, along with their planned scholarly activities

1 Visiting scholars can anticipate termination of their UNI and TC g-mail at the end of the academic term that the visit end date falls within.

2 Visiting scholars interested in enrolling in TC courses for credit must formally apply to the College as non-degree students and are responsible for all applicable course fees.

“Visiting scholar” is a courtesy designation and does not signify a formal association with the College. Individuals may not claim a College affiliation for the purpose of applying for grants and contracts and should not represent themselves in their publications and correspondence as having a College affiliation. Beyond the application, neither OISS nor the College maintain official records of a scholar’s stay and thus are unable to provide a statement of activities. Scholars in need of such a statement should communicate with the faculty host and/or host department.

Application and Renewal Fee

Approved applicants must submit one of two nonrefundable administrative fees:

AY22 - 23 (September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2023)

  • Initial application fee: $400
  • Renewal fee: $100

AY23 - 24 (September 1, 2023 - August 31, 2024)

  • Initial application fee: $500
  • Renewal fee: $200

Applicants can submit payment via TC Cashnet, which accepts only credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Masterpass). Note that any fees paid by the College on behalf of the scholar will be treated as income for the scholar and must be in compliance with immigration policies.

Faculty Host

Visiting scholars must be recommended by a faculty host.

Please note that hosts must be:

  • A full-time member of the College’s instructional staff3; or a management-level academic administrative staff (e.g. lab/institute/center director) with shared academic disciplines.
  • In residence at the College (and not away on sabbatical leave) during the approved visit period.

3A full-time faculty on contract can only act as a visiting scholar host provided that the visit dates in question fall within the host’s employment contract period at the College.

Host faculty are responsible for acting as their respective scholar’s primary point of contact. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Supporting department- or program-level administrators with completing the online visiting scholar application in TC Compass;
  • Facilitating meetings between the scholar and members of the College community; and
  • Providing adequate workspace, if available, with the understanding that workspace is not guaranteed.

Identifying a Faculty Host

It is the responsibility of prospective applicants to identify and confirm a TC host. We encourage interested parties to visit TC department/center websites or the faculty profile pages to learn more about TC faculty, their academic disciplines and current projects. Prospective applicants are welcome to reach out to those whose research interests best align with their own to discuss a possible visit.

Application Process

After confirming a faculty host, applicants must work with the hosting academic department to complete the application process. A designated staff (DS) from the host department must initiate the official visiting scholar application via TC-Compass. The DS will also act as the scholar’s main administrative point of contact during the visit; and along with the faculty host, is responsible for helping the scholar become acclimated to the TC campus.

How to Apply

  1. The DS initiates the application process in TC-Compass.
  2. The applicant receives an email with TC-Compass login credentials and must complete the:      a. Online visiting scholar application                                                                                                              b. J-1 DS-2019 Request form (only if applying for visa sponsorship)
  3. If the application is approved, the applicant will receive notification via email with instructions on how to submit relevant fees (administrative or renewal) via credit card via TC-Cashnet.
  4. Once the fees are received, the OISS will send a formal letter of invitation to the scholar and the host via email.
  5. The applicant submits the Form DS-2019 (only if applying for visa sponsorship).

When completing the application in TC-Compass, applicants should be ready to upload the following additional documents:

  • Resume/CV
  • Research plan
  • Passport
  • Financial documents (only if applying for visa sponsorship)
  • English Language Proficiency (ELP) documents (only if applying for visa sponsorship)

Processing Times

OISS recommends that departments begin the application process at least 3 months in advance of the visit start date to allow ample time for review. Prospective scholars should allow approximately 14 business days -- provided no additional information is required -- for a complete review of an application submitted in its entirety; and that applications are processed in the order in which they are received. OISS recommends that departments begin the application at least 3 months in advance of the visit start date to allow ample time for review.

Visa Sponsorship

The U.S. Department of State authorizes the College to sponsor foreign nationals for the J-1 Exchange Visitor program for the purpose of engaging in research, scholarly collaboration and to promote global exchange. Upon receipt of all required documents, OISS will issue a form DS-2019 to support the J-1 visa application for an approved visiting scholar.

Financial Arrangements

Scholars are responsible for their own financial accommodations and living arrangements during their stay. The College does not financially compensate visiting scholars, nor are scholars eligible for College or CU benefits (including health insurance). Scholars may not be compensated from a College account, given a fellowship or be reimbursed for expenses without prior approval of the Vice Provost. If granted authorization and provided that it does not violate the scholar’s immigration status, a scholar may receive a honoraria for participating in a conference or giving an occasional lecture, in accordance with the College’s policy on procurement. Even so, it is the scholar’s responsibility to communicate with OISS prior to engaging in an activity in order to verify if they are eligible to be compensated for activities that are related and part of their program.

Responsible Office(s): Office of International Students & Scholars

Last updated: March 2023



 

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