Columbia University’s Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management program recently welcomed its newest cohort, marking the start of an exciting academic journey. Students arrived on campus in August for the opening residency, a three-day experience designed to introduce them to the program’s online format, Columbia’s extensive resources, and one another. Through workshops, team-building activities, and networking sessions, students began forming connections that will carry through their studies and into their professional lives. On the first evening of the residency, new students were joined by students from the fall 2024 cohort, alumni, faculty, and advisory council members for an evening reception, reinforcing the program’s commitment to creating a long-lasting community of wealth management professionals.
“The residency is where the transformation begins,” said Tracy Schwartz, senior program director of Wealth Management. “Students arrive eager to learn, and in just a few days, they’ve already built a community of peers, mentors, and advisors. That sense of connection is what makes the Columbia experience distinct—it turns a rigorous online program into a collaborative journey with lifelong impact.”
The M.P.S. in Wealth Management is a 16-month, primarily online program that combines asynchronous coursework with two required residencies in New York City. The first serves as an orientation to the program, while the second brings students back to campus for capstone presentations, professional development, and industry networking.
With students joining from across the United States and abroad, the program attracts both experienced professionals and those just entering the wealth management field. This diversity enriches discussions, broadens perspectives, and mirrors the collaborative nature of real-world advisory teams.
As wealth management continues to evolve amid shifting client needs and emerging technologies, Columbia’s program prepares graduates to meet the challenges ahead. “The most rewarding part of this work,” added Schwartz, “is watching students discover not only how to advance their careers, but also how to redefine what wealth management can mean for individuals, families, and communities.”
Take a look at some of the highlights from the residency below:
Left to right: Senior Program Director Tracy Schwartz with Chip Anderson (’24SPS Wealth Management), Koos Schrijen, Director of Major Gifts and International Development Columbia University (Law School), and Calan Dwyer, Assistant Director of Business Operations Columbia University. Both Koos and Calan are current students in the program.
Sally McLeod (’25SPS Wealth Management) with Program Lecturer Steven Bodurtha.
Tim Hamilton (’24SPS, Wealth Management) with Program Lecturer Craig Lyman (’22SPS, Wealth Management).
Members of the fall 2025 cohort.
A festive dinner enjoyed at Bustan on the Upper West Side.
Members of the fall 2024 cohort.
New student Joan Pattarozzi with Program Lecturer Matthias Kuhlmey and Jenifer Bloodsworth (’22SPS, Wealth Management).
Lively conversations.
Members of the fall 2024 cohort with Advisory Council Member Philipp Hecker.
Fall 2025 cohort on Columbia’s campus.
Fall 2025 cohort on Columbia’s campus.
About the Program
Columbia University’s Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management program is a 16-month online program with asynchronous instruction specially designed to accommodate working professionals. It is taught by distinguished faculty with deep applied experience in their respective fields. Additionally, it is a CFP Board Registered Program designed to help students meet the educational requirement for CFP® certification.
Learn more about the program here.
