Social Studies Education

A Graduate School of Education, Health & Psychology

Welcome to the Social Studies Education program


Social studies is a capacious and interdisciplinary field focusing, at the broadest level, on the study of social relationships and society.  As a school subject, social studies is charged with developing an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry equipped to approach contemporary issues - from local to transnational - in a critically attuned, historically informed, justice-oriented, and compassionate manner. 

The program in Social Studies Education at Teachers College, Columbia University centers social studies as both scholarly inquiry and informed practice. The program prepares social studies educators and researchers with critical and interconnected understandings of the social world, who draw from multiple social science and humanities fields to inform their practice and inquiry. 

The program embraces the concept of “critical social studies,” with particular emphasis on grappling with questions of equity and social justice, and exploring the potential for resonance between this school subject and the lives of diverse young people. We ask questions about where knowledge comes from and how power shapes what knowledges about the social world are valued and made visible for inquiry.  We promote approaches to education that critically analyze existing power structures, inequities, and injustices.  This approach to social studies provides students with the knowledge and skills to act civically, to counter injustice, and take action towards a more equitable world.



Events


Calendar

April 2025
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Apr
21
Apr
22
Classes & Workshops
10:30 PM12:00 AM
Smith Learning Theater

Stories


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Civics

5 Ways to Integrate the 2024 Election into the Classroom

TC experts weigh in on how to leverage the democratic process to teach your students about the U.S. government and civic engagement

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Civics

5 Ways to Integrate the 2024 Election into the Classroom

TC experts weigh in on how to leverage the democratic process to teach your students about the U.S. government and civic engagement

Read More

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Community

4 Must-Read Books On LGBTQ+ Experiences

In honor of Pride Month, TC faculty and staff share their favorite reads related to the joys and struggles of queer life, love and advocacy

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Community

4 Must-Read Books On LGBTQ+ Experiences

In honor of Pride Month, TC faculty and staff share their favorite reads related to the joys and struggles of queer life, love and advocacy

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K-12 Education

3 Teachers Making a Difference

Celebrate the profound impact of educators making a real difference in the classroom in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week (and every day)

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K-12 Education

3 Teachers Making a Difference

Celebrate the profound impact of educators making a real difference in the classroom in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week (and every day)

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Teachers College News
K-12 Education

5 Ways Educators Can Help Support LGBTQ+ Students

Growing up is hard enough, but a revitalized culture war poses additional challenges for queer kids. Here’s how teachers can make a difference every day.

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K-12 Education

5 Ways Educators Can Help Support LGBTQ+ Students

Growing up is hard enough, but a revitalized culture war poses additional challenges for queer kids. Here’s how teachers can make a difference every day.

Read More

Admissions Information

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For admissions, please contact admission@tc.columbia.edu

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