Teaching of Social Studies
The Master of Education in Teaching of Social Studies is a two year full time program designed for students seeking advanced skills in teaching, curriculum development, and educational research within social studies. The curriculum integrates pedagogical theory, instructional strategies, historical and cultural studies, and research methods to provide a comprehensive foundation for effective teaching in middle and high school settings. Through this program, students develop curriculum design, instructional strategies, educational research, and classroom management skills, preparing them to create engaging learning environments, develop innovative teaching materials, and foster critical thinking in students.
This on campus program immerses students in a dynamic academic environment where lectures, workshops, classroom observation, and applied projects are complemented by research and collaborative teaching practice. Students refine lesson planning, assessment techniques, student engagement strategies, and instructional evaluation skills through practical exercises and supervised teaching experiences. Graduates are prepared to work in schools, educational consultancies, curriculum development teams, and teacher training programs, equipping them to design effective social studies programs, improve instructional quality, and contribute to educational policy and practice.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Teaching of Social Studies
- Degree Type: Master of Education
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Sociology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Social Studies Education
• Introduction to Social Studies Pedagogy
• Curriculum Design and Lesson Planning
• Historical and Cultural Studies for Educators
• Educational Research Methods
Semester 2 – Advanced Teaching Practices
• Assessment and Evaluation in Social Studies
• Instructional Strategies and Student Engagement
• Technology Enhanced Learning in Social Studies
• Seminar in Teaching Practice
Semester 3 – Practicum and Applied Research
• Classroom Observation and Teaching Practicum
• Curriculum Implementation and Adaptation
• Applied Research Project in Social Studies Education
• Elective Modules in Specialized Social Studies Topics
Semester 4 – Capstone and Independent Research
• Independent Research / Thesis in Social Studies Education
• Curriculum Development Project
• Seminar on Educational Policy and Practice
• Presentation and Professional Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in teaching, curriculum design, educational consultancy, research, and leadership in social studies education. Career paths include social studies teacher, curriculum developer, educational researcher, teacher trainer, and instructional coordinator. Graduates are equipped to design effective curricula, implement innovative teaching strategies, assess student learning outcomes, and contribute to educational improvement. The program also prepares learners for leadership, advisory, and applied roles requiring expertise in social studies pedagogy, curriculum development, and instructional research.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines advanced pedagogical skills, curriculum development expertise, research based instructional strategies, and practical teaching experience within a two year intensive framework. The curriculum emphasizes hands on practice, applied research, and classroom observation, allowing learners to develop analytical, instructional, and professional skills for improving social studies education. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and competencies necessary to pursue careers in teaching, curriculum design, research, and educational consultancy while contributing meaningfully to student learning and school development.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
