Professional Development

Most TC Academy programs do not require subject-matter expertise before you enroll. Our programs are designed to meet you where you're at, whether you're building knowledge from scratch or deepening an existing practice. Each program page specifies any prerequisites, so you can confirm the right fit before applying.

Enrollment is completed online through TC Academy's registration portal. Select your program, review the dates and format, and submit your registration along with any required materials. Once confirmed, you'll receive a welcome email with everything you need to get started. Some programs have limited seats, so we recommend registering early.

TC Academy offers programs in multiple formats: fully online, in person at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City, and hybrid options that combine both. Format availability varies by program and is noted on each program's listing page so you can choose what works best for your schedule and location.

Programs are led by faculty and expert practitioners affiliated with Teachers College, Columbia University, one of the world's leading graduate schools of education. Instructors bring active research backgrounds alongside real K–12 experience, so the content reflects both the latest thinking in the field and what actually works in classrooms. Instructor bios are available on individual program pages.

Many employers, including school districts, also provide tuition reimbursement for professional development, and TC Academy programs are frequently eligible. Select programs have scholarship opportunities available. Contact tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu to inquire about potential options specific to your program of interest, and check with your district's HR office about reimbursement policies.

Most TC Academy programs award a certificate of participation, and many offer Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE) credits. Certification details are listed on each program page.

TC Academy is housed within Teachers College, Columbia University’s one of the world's leading education research institutions. Our programs are developed and regularly updated by faculty and practitioners who are actively working at the cutting edge of the field. When the landscape shifts, our curriculum reflects it. You won't be learning from materials that are five years out of date.

Program length varies from single-day workshops to multi-week or semester-length courses. Many online offerings are self-paced or asynchronous, allowing you to complete coursework around your teaching schedule. Program pages indicate duration, pacing, and any required synchronous sessions so you can plan before committing.

Absolutely. Several TC Academy programs are specifically designed with early-career educators in mind. You'll find practical, classroom-ready content alongside a peer community of educators at a similar stage. You don't need years of experience to benefit; what matters most is your commitment to growing your practice. Check individual program pages for recommended experience levels.

TC Academy programs are built to challenge experienced educators, not just introduce new ones. Mid-career teachers often find our programs most valuable because they bring enough classroom experience to immediately apply new ideas and engage critically with current research. Many of our programs are designed with experienced practitioners as the primary audience, and peer cohorts often include educators with decades in the field.

Yes. TC Academy partners with districts and schools to deliver customized on-site and virtual professional development. We work with your leadership team to align programming to your strategic priorities, whether that's a one-day workshop, a multi-session series, or a year-long initiative. Reach out to tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu to start a conversation about what your school needs.

Absolutely. TC Academy offers group enrollment discounts for schools and districts. Enrolling a team also creates natural opportunities for collaborative learning and shared implementation back in your schools. Contact tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu to discuss group registration and invoicing options.