Pre-College Instructor, Urban Planning and Design (On-Campus), Summer 2026

Columbia University • New York, NY

10h • Onsite

About The Position

Columbia University's Pre-College Programs offer high-achieving high school students the opportunity to engage in exploratory coursework at the college level, studying alongside peers from around the world. This highly selective program is open to students entering grades 9 and through the summer following their senior year. Columbia University’s Pre-College Programs for high school students is seeking qualified candidates to develop and teach on-campus courses during Summer ’26. Reporting to the Senior Director of Instruction and Curriculum for Pre-College Programs, Pre-College instructors develop and deliver immersive non-credit courses for high-achieving high school students. They guide and supervise students when classes are in session, and write a holistic evaluation of each course participant after classes conclude. Making urban areas livable, sustainable, and desirable is a top priority for governmental bodies, economists, business leaders, realtors, and many other key stakeholders. Shaping the way our society operates is a big job, and it’s why urban planning is such a sought-after career. Becoming an urban planner requires a combination of sophisticated skills that includes architecture, engineering, and design. Through this course, students will explore the fundamentals of urban planning, learn how to build effective communities, and discuss the best practices of working with land (including infrastructure, water, and air) to design healthy, happy, and in-demand habitats. Additionally, students will explore how transportation, business districts, and environmental concerns impact development through hands-on experiences, like field trips. By the end of the course, students will have an acumen for discussing history, theory, and pressing social issues that impact both real estate and residents’ quality of life. Note: This class will focus on this topic from a United States perspective.

Requirements

• Graduate degree or equivalent professional or academic background
• Expertise in the pertinent subject matter
• Aptitude for teaching
• U.S. work authorization
• Will need to be in the U.S. while teaching
• Submit to a third party background check
• Complete Protection of Minors training in addition to other training(s) mandated by the University and Pre-College Program

Responsibilities

• Develop course content, syllabus, lesson plans, and assigned work, in accordance with Pre-College templates and regulations
• Lead and attend all class sessions, including escorting students to and from campus for field trips
• Establish and maintain a dynamic in-class environment tailored for our high school population
• Evaluate student work and write a holistic evaluation of each participant after the course ends
• Monitor and address student concerns and inquiries (typical class size is 20-24 students)
• Attend and complete all required online trainings

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees