Pre-College Instructor, Introduction to Architectural Design and Theory (On-Campus), Summer 2026

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.

For more information on the program–including course sessions and times–please see here.

Course Description

This intensive course introduces architectural design processes and key concepts in architectural history and theory. Through making and critiques, participants will learn to use architectural drawing techniques and modeling, to develop and communicate design ideas by completing studio-based exercises. Students will also be introduced to significant design work, interrogate important readings, and grapple with relevant discussions in architecture, all with a New York City lens. Students may participate in architectural tours, site visits, and experiences with practitioners, providing real-world exposure to the field; these experiences may vary by section. By the end of the course, students will look at buildings with a new perspective, have a better understanding of architectural pathways and futures within the discipline, and leave with a design project that can form the basis of a portfolio.

Course participants will be required to purchase approximately $150 of basic studio supplies prior to the start of class

Course Schedule(s)

Session A: June 29 - July 17

Times: 9:10 - 11:00am & 1:10 - 3:00pm OR 11:10am - 1:00pm & 3:10 - 5:00pm

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 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

• Graduate degree or equivalent professional or academic background
• Expertise in the pertinent subject matter
• Aptitude for teaching

Hiring Salary Ranges: 

• Session A (Campus, 3 Week): $7,000 - $9,000

Please specify which session schedule you would be interested in teaching in the Message to Hiring Manager field.  

• Please submit a resume inclusive of teaching experience as well as formal teaching evaluations (if available)

• Applicants must have U.S. work authorization and will need to be in the U.S. while teaching

• Columbia Affiliates: There may be restrictions when hiring individuals who hold a concurrent appointment at Columbia University during the Summer term. Generally, PhD students and Officers of Research are not eligible. Please check with us during the hiring process regarding your eligibility. Please note, Pre-College courses do not count towards the maximum course loads for adjuncts.

• Once hired, applicants are required to submit to a third party background check and complete Protection of Minors training in addition to other training(s) mandated by the University and Pre-College Program

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran