CSHR: Summer School 2008

Anyone who enrolls may participate in the Summer Session. The courses are open to matriculated Columbia students, visiting students from across the nation, and any new and continuing non-degree students, including international students. However, because of the visa and registration requirements, students from outside the US are encouraged to apply 12 weeks in advance of the beginning of a session (preferably in March). If you are a prospective student from abroad, please go here for more information.

When/how can I enroll?

Registration can be completed by Columbia students online or by telephone from Monday through Friday, April 7-11, and during the regular registration dates for the D and Q sessions (see below). Please check the Summer School website if you are not currently a Columbia student (even if you have been accepted for the upcoming fall term).

Generally, non-Columbia students fall into one of four categories: visiting undergraduate students/visiting graduate students (currently enrolled in another college or university), post-baccalaureate studies scholar (holds at least a bachelor’s degree but is not currently enrolled at a college or university), and visiting high school students. Non-Columbia students must apply for admission before enrolling in a summer course. The on-line application form can be found on the Summer Term website for each of these categories.

Is room and board available for summer students?

Current CC/SEAS students are eligible for summer housing. Summer housing will be based on availability at the time of your selection and cannot be guaranteed.

Applications are available in 125 Wallach or at CU's Housing website. Summer and interim housing charges for current Columbia students will be billed automatically to a student's account. Housing applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all beds are filled, but applications should be received by April 18 for high priority on the list of University housing.

Summer housing is assigned in two six-week blocks: May 26 –July 3, 2008 and July 6 –August 15, 2008. For dates and times to check in and check out of housing, see http://www.columbia.edu/cu/housing.

For more information please see CU Housing's summer housing site.

What are the academic expectations for students?

All human rights courses are open to advanced undergraduate or graduate students. Attendance, completion of assignments, and critical engagement are expected of all students. The requirements for each course are determined by the instructor.

Can I use the libraries on campus?

All resources available to current students are also available for enrolled visiting students, including on-campus libraries and access to Lerner Hall, the student activities center.

Do I have to take an exam or write multiple papers?

Because these courses are designed for advanced undergraduate or graduate students, professors will typically require long papers and/or exams.

How many credits is one course, and how can I tell if they will transfer?

All courses are three credits. Please refer to the Columbia Summer Session’s website on credit transfer for specific information on transfer of records.

Is financial aid available to students?

Please refer to the Columbia Summer Session’s website for information on financial aid for summer students. The Student Financial Planning office can assist in finding and applying for private loans.

What dates and deadlines should I remember?

Session I: Registration for Columbia students takes place April 7-11 on-line or by phone. Barnard students may register in person during these days.
The Office of Admissions begins reviewing applications from visiting students on May 5 and continues to review applications up to the start of the program. (It is recommended that you submit your application at least two weeks prior to the session you plan to attend).
Registration is open to Barnard, Columbia, and admitted visiting students on May 22-27 by phone, on-line, or in person during these days. Barnard students may register in person beginning on May 22. Late registration (with applicable fees) takes place May 28-May 30.
May 30 is the last day to drop a class in Session I without being charged for it. June 2nd is the last day to drop the entire program with a full refund.
Session II: Columbia students may register for Session II on April 7-11 on-line or by phone. Barnard students may register in person during these days.
The Office of Admissions begins reviewing applications from visiting students on June 16, and continue s to review applications up to the start of the program (though it is recommended that you submit your application at least two weeks prior to the session you plan to attend).
Registration for Barnard, Columbia, and admitted visiting students takes place on July 2-7. Late registration (with applicable fees) occurs July 7-10.
The deadline to drop a course is July 11th.
Housing: The Housing Application is due on April 18th.
The university will be closed on Wed., May 21st, for Commencement; Mon., May 26th, for Memorial Day, and Fri., July 4th, for Independence Day.
A make-up class will be held on Friday, May 30, for the Memorial Day holiday (May 26).

Please refer to the School of Continuing Education's Calendars for a full list of important dates.

Where is the Center for the Study of Human Rights?

CSHR is located in the International Affairs Building at 420 West 118 th, just across Amsterdam Avenue from Columbia’s main campus, in Suite 1108.

How do I find information about the Human Rights Watch Film Festival?

See the 2008 HRW Film Festival website.

How do I find out about other human rights events and activities in NYC?

The Center will provide a list of activities, both sponsored and independent, to students attending each summer session. Please check back to our website for the most updated information (coming soon).