Overview

The Global Thought M.A. at Columbia University provides an interdisciplinary framework for analysing the interconnected challenges of the modern world. Students engage with diverse perspectives to understand how global forces shape local realities across political, social, and economic landscapes.

This programme encourages scholars to think beyond traditional academic boundaries, fostering a deep understanding of global governance and cultural exchange. By integrating various disciplines, the curriculum prepares graduates to navigate the complexities of an increasingly globalised society through critical inquiry and research.

Why Global Thought at Columbia University?

Studying at this institution offers access to a world-renowned faculty and a vibrant intellectual community in the heart of a global city. The programme is distinguished by its commitment to innovative research and its ability to connect students with leading experts across multiple fields of study.

Participants benefit from a unique learning environment that emphasises collaborative problem-solving and global networking. The university provides extensive resources, including specialised research centres and libraries, to support students in their pursuit of academic excellence and professional growth.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 36728 per semester
National fee: USD 36728 per semester
Local fee: USD 36728 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in global theory while allowing for specialised research. Modules may include:

Global Thought
Politics of Globalisation
Global Governance
International Development
Cultural Studies
Social Theory
Research Seminar
Global Political Economy

Careers with Global Thought

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse professional paths in international organisations, non-governmental agencies, and the public sector. The analytical skills developed during the programme are highly valued in roles focused on policy analysis, global advocacy, and strategic planning.

Many alumni pursue successful careers in international diplomacy, social research, and global communications. The programme's emphasis on cross-cultural understanding and systemic thinking ensures that graduates can effectively contribute to solving global issues within multinational corporations and academic institutions.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Global governance
Political economy
Culture
Original research
Analytic argument
Persuasive writing

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-19 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies Sociology International Development View 371 other Masters in Sociology in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

One transcript per school attended showing courses and grades
Statement of academic purpose emphasizing academic goals, anticipated program of study, and expected impact on career (no more than 1,000 words)
Three letters of recommendation. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, at least TWO of which must be from referees with direct knowledge of the applicant’s academic background and abilities, i.e. an instructor or academic tutor or advisor. No more than one letter should be from a professional supervisor or colleague (including internship supervisors).
Students must demonstrate intermediate proficiency in a language other than English equivalent to four semesters of collegiate study. Students have multiple options by which they can confirm their language proficiency. Click here to learn more.
Personal statement

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Out-of-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Free visa & career support through our Path2Success program

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Global Thought.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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