Columbia University’s Pre-College Programs for high school students is seeking qualified candidates to develop and teach 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.For more information on the program–including course sessions and times–please see here.Course Description
Neuroscience is the study of the neural processes and mechanisms underlying human function and behavior. It is an interdisciplinary field that combines the ideas explored in the field of psychology with the science that governs the brain and body. In order to understand the etiology of disorders such as addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia, it is crucial to understand how molecular, cellular, and endocrine changes contribute to disease progression.In this course, students learn about how the laws of neurons and neurotransmitters direct brain processes. Classes include interactive lectures, discussions, and assignments designed to help students understand the neuroscience of addiction, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Outside of class, students explore case studies of neuropsychiatric disorders so as to fully understand the extent of debilitation and possibilities for recovery. Prerequisite: One year of high school biology.Course Schedule(s)
Session AA: June 22 - June 26 10:00am - 12:00pm & 1:00 - 3:00pm ET (Classes are taught online)
Please note: Course(s) and course availability are subject to change. All times shown are Eastern Time (ET). Dates and class times are tentative and subject to change.Responsibilities:Develop course content, syllabus, lesson plans, and assigned work, in accordance with Pre-College templates and regulationsLead and attend all online class sessionsEstablish and maintain a dynamic in-class environment tailored for our high school populationEvaluate student work and write a holistic evaluation of each participant after the course endsMonitor and address student concerns and inquiries (typical class size is 20-24 students)Attend and complete all required online trainings
