Master of Arts in the Teaching of Social Studies (INSTEP)
Become a leader in your field through this three-year, summer M.A. degree for experienced social studies teachers. This program can be used for New York State Professional Certification for those individuals who hold Initial Certification in New York and have the necessary credentials. The INSTEP program is designed for teachers from both public and private schools.
To meet the needs of in-service teachers, classes are held for two weeks over three consecutive summers with continuing online work during the year, and focus on content and pedagogy in social studies education. During the interim semesters, students take courses online and conduct research that emerges from their pedagogical interests. In addition, students take courses in social studies content and in other programs at 51吃瓜网 to fill the gaps in students鈥� previous content coverage, as well as general pedagogical knowledge. The summer session is a two-week session during the summer B term. Lastly, during the interim semesters, students are expected to check their emails regularly.
Admission Information
Displaying requirements for the Spring 2027, Summer 2027, and Fall 2027 terms.
Program is not accepting applications for the 2027 cycle.
Master of Arts
- Points/Credits: 32
- Entry Terms: Summer
- Enrollment Formats: Full-Time Hybrid, Part-Time Hybrid
Certification
View Public Disclosure Notification
- NY State Professional: Social Studies 7-12
Application Requirements
| Requirement | |
|---|---|
| , including Statement of Purpose and Resume | |
| Transcripts and/or Course-by-Course Evaluations for all Undergraduate/Graduate Coursework Completed | |
| Results from an accepted English Proficiency Exam (if applicable) | |
| $75 Application Fee | |
| Two (2) Letters of Recommendation | |
| Interview (phone, video, or in-person) required for all applicants | |
| Must hold or be eligible for Initial Certification, if certification is in-progress, must be obtained prior to enrollment |
For admission-related inquiries, please contact AHadmission@tc.columbia.edu.
Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2026-2027)
View catalog information for the Fall 2026, Spring 2027 and Summer 2027 terms.