Overview

The Political Ecology programme at Columbia University provides students with a robust theoretical and methodological foundation in sociocultural anthropology. This specialised track is designed for those dedicated to exploring the complex intersections of climate change, environmental justice, and global sustainability. By integrating social science with environmental perspectives, the curriculum prepares scholars to address contemporary socio-ecological challenges.

Why Political Ecology at Columbia University?

Choosing this track allows students to benefit from the prestigious academic environment of Columbia University while focusing on urgent global issues. The programme is specifically structured to enhance prospects for admission to advanced graduate studies in human geography, environmental humanities, and sustainable investment. Students receive expert guidance from faculty specialists, ensuring their senior thesis projects contribute meaningfully to the field of environmental anthropology.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 70170 per year
National fee: USD 70170 per year
Local fee: USD 70170 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Interpretation of Culture
Anthropological Theory
Environmental Science
Anthropology of Climate Change
Anthropology of the Anthropocene
Anthropology and Consumption
Culture, Society, & Catastrophe
City, Environment, Vulnerability
Food Ecology and Globalization

Careers with Political Ecology

Graduates are well-equipped for professional roles that demand a deep understanding of the nexus between people and their environments. The specialised training supports career paths in environmental journalism, a rapidly expanding sector, as well as roles within state agencies and international organisations. Many alumni find success working with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) focused on environmental mitigation, resilience, and adaptation strategies. The programme also serves as a primary gateway for those pursuing research-based careers or roles in sustainable policy development.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

The Environment
The Origins of Human Society
The Rise of Civilization
Language and Culture
The Anthropology of Climate Change
The Human Species: Its Place in Nature
Environmental Science

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Ecology Political Science View 271 other Bachelors in Ecology in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

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

Common Application
Barnard Writing Supplement
$75 non-refundable application fee or fee waiver request
Official high school and college transcripts
Secondary school report and high school profile: These are documents that your high school counselor will submit along with your transcript that help our office contextualize your achievements.
SAT or ACT scores
High school counselor letter of recommendation
Two teacher letters of recommendation
Official TOEFL , IELTS, or Duolingo English Test Scores

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

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Out-of-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 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.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Political Ecology.

Available Scholarships

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

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

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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