Columbia College is defined by its distinctive model of liberal arts and science education, rooted in the enduring values of the Core Curriculum and a commitment to openness and intellectual diversity. We cultivate critical thinkers, creative problem-solvers and engaged citizens prepared to navigate an increasingly complex world.
The Core Curriculum serves as a dynamic and inclusive foundation to our undergraduate education. In addition to cultivating habits of mind that last a lifetime, it fosters connections to students’ broader programs of study, and engages New York City as a living laboratory that extends learning beyond the classroom. Further, the College offers access to opportunities for original research and discovery, ensuring students have the resources, mentorship and support to participate in the creation of knowledge.
Through collaboration with professional schools and the broader University, students gain access to faculty expertise, labs, archives and cross-disciplinary perspectives and experiential learning.
Focus areas
The Core Curriculum
Strengthen the Core Curriculum as the distinctive intellectual foundation of a Columbia College education through wider faculty engagement and curricular innovation.
Curricular Renewal
Uphold the highest academic rigor while adapting the curriculum to the demands of the modern learning environment, including the thoughtful integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, while retaining the humanistic values that make a Columbia College education distinct.
Undergraduate Research
Expand access to and support for research and experiential learning opportunities by connecting students with resources and mentorship.
Our work in these areas
- Increase participation by Columbia’s tenured and tenure-track faculty in the Core Curriculum, while also recruiting distinguished visiting scholars and promising early-career educators.
- Connect students, faculty, alumni and the public through lectures and discussions exploring questions raised in the Core Curriculum and, outside the classroom, through the Undergraduate Community Initiative.
- Launch a Research Hub connecting students with research and experiential learning opportunities, resources and mentorship.
- Increase funding to support a broader range of undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities.