About the job
Columbia University’s Pre-College Programs is on the lookout for exceptional individuals to create and deliver engaging on-campus courses for high school students in Summer 2026.
Reporting to the Senior Director of Instruction and Curriculum, instructors will be responsible for developing and facilitating immersive non-credit courses tailored for high-achieving students. This role includes guiding students during classes and providing comprehensive evaluations of each participant's performance upon course completion.
For detailed information regarding course sessions and timings, please visit here.
Course Overview
Urban planning is a vital field that aims to enhance the livability, sustainability, and desirability of urban spaces, making it a priority for various stakeholders including government officials, economists, and business professionals. This course will equip students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for a career in urban planning, combining elements of architecture, engineering, and design. Participants will investigate how to create effective communities and understand the critical aspects of land use, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. Through practical experiences such as field trips, students will gain insights into the effects of transportation systems, business districts, and ecological issues on urban development. By the end of this course, students will be adept at discussing historical, theoretical, and contemporary social issues affecting real estate and community well-being.
Note: This course will primarily focus on urban planning from a United States perspective.
Course Schedule
Session A: June 29 - July 17
Time: 11:10 AM - 1:00 PM & 3:10 PM - 5:00 PM
Note: Course offerings and schedules are subject to change. All times are in Eastern Time (ET).
Instructor Responsibilities:
- Design and develop curriculum, including course content, syllabi, lesson plans, and assignments, adhering to Pre-College guidelines.
- Lead all class sessions, including overseeing students on field trips.
- Foster a dynamic and engaging classroom environment suited for high school students.
- Assess student work and provide thorough evaluations for each participant at the conclusion of the course.
- Address student inquiries and concerns, with class sizes typically ranging from 20-24 students.
- Complete all mandatory online training sessions.

