Studying Online

We are dedicated to bringing an Ivy League education into the homes of bright, high-achieving students.

The Virtual Classroom

Students will attend class during the designated meeting times found on the individual course description pages. All courses are offered synchronously with live classroom instruction taught by scholars and practitioners who are experts in their fields. Courses are designed to be experiential and collaborative while taking advantage of Columbia's online learning technology.

In addition to the Instructor, each online classroom will have a designated Course Facilitator to assist with course technology. In this way, instructors can focus solely on the class lesson and on providing attention to individual students.

Instructors utilize CourseWorks to interact with students outside of course meeting times. The platform is used for homework, feedback, and discussions. All courses are taught using Zoom, an online video-conferencing platform.

Student Engagement

Students are expected to participate actively in class and to collaborate with their peers and with program instructors. Discussions, group work, and in-class presentations given by students are regular components of our courses. The virtual classroom functions as a dynamic community of learners and thinkers.

All students are required to utilize webcams, headsets, and microphones so they can engage in active discussion and contribute to the online classroom community.

Learning at Home

Students should do their best to find a suitable location from which to engage the online course. Ideal “home classrooms” are free of noise, music, and other people or pets passing through the display. Any decorations, graphic art, or posters should be suitable for a classroom environment.