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Studying Online at Columbia SPS

Whether pursuing courses online or in person, School of Professional Studies students follow a rigorous Columbia University curriculum taught by world-class scholar-practitioner faculty and develop knowledge and skills they can apply immediately in the workplace.

Several of the School of Professional Studies’ master’s and certification programs can be completed fully online, while other programs can be completed in a format combining in-person and online study.

Three Online Formats

Synchronous

Online with Residencies

Asynchronous

Earn Your Columbia Degree Online. Elevate Your Career.

Experience an Ivy League education from anywhere in the world. Columbia University’s online degree programs offer rigorous academics, cutting-edge industry insights, and access to an influential global network. With flexible learning options designed for working professionals—including synchronous, asynchronous, and on-campus residency formats—our programs empower you to excel, wherever you are.

Designed for Working Professionals

Flexible program formats allow you to take the number of courses you need to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments.

Expert Faculty & Industry Practitioners

Learn from top Columbia faculty and leading industry professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom and are specially trained in our Pedagogical Lab, designed by the award-winning Online Curriculum and Instruction (OCI) team.

Industry-Aligned Curriculum

Programs are built with direct input from employers, equipping you with immediately applicable skills for today’s workforce.

Engaging Student Life

Students from across SPS programs come together through a robust slate of online events, including faculty panels, career development workshops, and SPS clubs.

A Global Network that Opens Doors

Join Columbia’s 380,000+ alumni network, connecting you with professionals and mentors worldwide.

Online Offerings

 

Fully Online

Master of Science Programs

Master of Professional Studies Programs

Certification Programs

Online with Residencies

Master of Science Programs

To see if a specific course may be offered online, and in what format, please refer to the Program Details and Courses webpages for the program you're interested in. In addition, you may also want to check the Columbia University Directory of Classes. There, course listings specify if a course is offered online in the optional “location” field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Resources at Columbia

Online students receive ongoing course technology and academic support as well as access to resources open to all SPS students.

View Student Resources