COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy in Comparative and International Education
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
84 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 75Graduate Level Points Required
- Full-TimeCampus-Based Enrollment
- Part-TimeCampus-Based Enrollment
- FallEntry Term
- December 1, 2025Priority Application Deadline
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Comparative and International Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, offers a rigorous academic program for students seeking to deeply understand and address global educational challenges. This program focuses on analyzing educational systems, policies, and practices across different countries and cultures. Students will engage with complex theories and research methodologies to contribute to the field of international and comparative education. The curriculum is designed to equip future scholars, researchers, and policymakers with the knowledge and skills needed to drive positive change in education worldwide.
Careers
Graduates of the Comparative and International Education PhD program are prepared for a variety of academic and professional roles. The program fosters skills applicable to research, policy analysis, and leadership positions within international organizations, non-governmental agencies, governmental bodies, and higher education institutions.
- Academic Researcher
- University Professor
- Policy Analyst
- Program Director
- Educational Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the PhD in Comparative and International Education?
- You need a Master's degree, official transcripts from all previous coursework, and an academic writing sample. International applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency.
- What is the application deadline for this program?
- The priority application deadline for Fall entry is December 1, 2025. Applications typically open well in advance of this date.
- How much does the program cost?
- A $75 application fee is required. Specific tuition and living cost information is not provided and should be sought from the university's finance office.
- How long does the PhD program take?
- The program requires a minimum of 75 graduate-level points, including potential transfer credits. Specific program duration will vary based on individual progress and coursework completion.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PhD?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Researcher, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Program Director, and Educational Consultant in various international and governmental organizations.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeA Master's degree is required for admission.
TranscriptsOfficial transcripts and/or course-by-course evaluations for all undergraduate and graduate coursework completed are required.
Academic Writing SampleAn academic writing sample must be submitted.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. Specific requirements for English proficiency exams are available on the university's admissions page. For admission-related inquiries, contact ITSadmission@tc.columbia.edu.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not specified on the program page. Please refer to the university's official tuition and fee schedule for current rates.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not specified on the program page. Please refer to the university's official tuition and fee schedule for current rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program page. Prospective students should consult university resources for information on living expenses in New York City.
A $75 application fee is required. Information on tuition and fees can typically be found on the university's finance or bursar's office website.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the online degree application form, including a Statement of Purpose and a Resume/CV.
2. Submit TranscriptsProvide official transcripts and/or course-by-course evaluations for all previously completed undergraduate and graduate coursework.
3. English ProficiencyIf applicable, submit results from an accepted English proficiency exam (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
4. Pay Application FeeSubmit the non-refundable application fee of $75.
5. Letters of RecommendationArrange for two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your academic and professional capabilities.
6. Academic Writing SampleInclude an academic writing sample as part of your application.
Accreditation
Teachers College, Columbia University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the PhD in Comparative and International Education?
+
You need a Master's degree, official transcripts from all previous coursework, and an academic writing sample. International applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency.
What is the application deadline for this program?
+
The priority application deadline for Fall entry is December 1, 2025. Applications typically open well in advance of this date.
How much does the program cost?
+
A $75 application fee is required. Specific tuition and living cost information is not provided and should be sought from the university's finance office.
How long does the PhD program take?
+
The program requires a minimum of 75 graduate-level points, including potential transfer credits. Specific program duration will vary based on individual progress and coursework completion.
What are the career prospects after completing this PhD?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Researcher, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Program Director, and Educational Consultant in various international and governmental organizations.