Columbia SIPA Launches Accelerated Pathway for Spring Term Entrants

New York, NY – Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) is excited to announce a new Accelerated Spring Term Entry option for students beginning the Master of International Affairs (MIA) or Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs in spring 2026.

Starting in 2026, incoming spring-term students will have the opportunity to pursue a unique degree pathway — through the addition of a new dedicated summer term — that enables them to immediately and fully integrate their academic studies with those of their fall-start peers, graduate on a faster timeline, and make their studies more cost-effective by reducing their time off the job market.

“This new accelerated option offers a more flexible path to graduation while maintaining SIPA’s rigorous academic standards and professional preparation,” said Keren Yarhi-Milo, dean of Columbia SIPA. “By meeting students where they are, we are helping them reach their goals more efficiently.”

Key Benefits of the Accelerated Track:

• Faster Time to Degree: Complete the full MIA or MPA program in 16 months rather than the traditional two-year program that spans 21 months of study
• Cohort Integration: Fully align with the traditional fall-entry cohort and graduate with all their peers in May.
• Continuous Study: Provide more streamlined learning options with no summer gaps

The accelerated option includes two intensive summer sessions (Summer A and Summer B), each equivalent to a half-semester. To earn full semester credit, students are required to complete both sessions. Additionally, students must have completed at least one semester of coursework prior to starting the summer sessions.

Financially, the cost of the combined summer terms aligns with the standard half-semester tuition structure, with proportional fees and living expenses. This allows students to maximize their return on investment without compromising the quality of their academic experience. To remain eligible for full-time tuition rates and avoid higher per-credit charges, students must enroll in at least two courses in each summer session.

Who Is Eligible?

• Spring-term MIA and MPA students entering in spring 2026

Apply Now to Join the Spring 2026 Cohort

For more information on course plans, cost comparisons, and application details, visit sipa.columbia.edu/admissions/accelerated-spring-term-entry.

Contact:
Columbia SIPA Office of Admissions and Financial Aid
Email: [email protected]