General Guidelines

Welcome New and Returning Faculty!

Welcome to the Columbia University School of Professional Studies and congratulations on your faculty appointment. We're incredibly honored to have you, whether you are returning to teach this semester or just joining us. 

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General Guidelines

To prepare you for teaching at CUSPS, we recommend the following:

  1. If you're new, visit the Welcome Aboard! page to get acquainted with faculty processes and procedures. Contact [email protected] with any questions.

  2. Make sure to complete your new hire paperwork and activate your Columbia UNI - it’s your entryway to most resources at Columbia University. If you need help, contact [email protected].

  3. Get acquainted with Canvas.

  4. If you're teaching an online or hybrid course, check out our top tips for instructors. Then, set aside some time to learn more about the online meeting and discussion tools in your course(s).

  5. Make your way through the Pre-flight Checklist to ensure you’re ready to teach by the first day of class.

  6. Find out how to get targeted, expedited assistance with course logistics and technology!

  7. Teaching for the very first time? Here are a few things you can do to prepare for your first teaching experience.

    • If possible, observe at least one class like the one you will be teaching. Talk with the instructor about problems or successes he or she has had with the course.

    • Ask experienced faculty or graduate students in your department for information and tips.

    • Visit your classroom in advance and familiarize yourself with the lighting, equipment, and layout; it’s amazing how fast your technology IQ can drop when trying to figure out new equipment in front of a room of students! 

  8. Teaching online for the first time? Here is an overview to get started.