Teaching of Social Studies MA

Master of Arts in the Teaching of Social Studies


This program shapes teacher-leaders in social studies education in middle and high schools.  

This program is designed for current public and private school teachers looking to improve their practice and step deeper into the field of social studies education. It is also serves recent graduates who want more experience before taking a full-time position.  The program has required coursework but enough flexibility to support the growth and interests of individual students. Students take courses in social studies teaching and social studies content. They also create a set of professional development coursework that support their interests and needs.  The program culminates with a thesis activity related to teaching practice.  

Most students either complete the program in one year as a full-time student or two years as a part-time student.



Teachers College Building
A group of students converse in a study group at Teachers College.

Admission Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2027, Summer 2027, and Fall 2027 terms.

Master of Arts

  • Points/Credits: 32
  • Entry Terms: Summer, Fall
  • Enrollment Formats: Full-Time Campus-Based, Part-Time Campus-Based

Application Deadlines

Entry Term AvailablePriority DeadlinesFinal DeadlinesExtended Deadlines
SpringN/AN/AN/A
SummerJanuary 15, 2027April 1, 2027N/A
FallJanuary 15, 2027April 1, 2027N/A

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines, such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

 Requirement
 Online Degree Application, 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

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.

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