Columbia Distinguished Fellows | Executive Fellowship for Senior Leaders

What have you always wanted to explore? Return to a subject you love, discover work at the forefront of another field, or make room for a project or idea you have not had time to pursue. The year is yours to shape.

The freedom to explore. The depth to go further.

Return to the pleasure of learning while encountering the ideas and discoveries shaping our world. At Columbia, Fellows join a shared Core seminar and University Discovery series, engage with faculty across disciplines, and may pursue additional courses, subject to permission and availability. Whether following a longstanding interest, developing a focused project, or considering a new chapter, the year offers room to take an idea further.

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About

Learn more about this new lifelong learning program for accomplished leaders interested in reigniting their intellectual curiosity while planning the next phase of their lives.

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Admissions

The inaugural Fall 2027 candidates will proceed through a phased application process with final decisions communicated by spring of 2027. Learn more about the process here. 

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The Experience

The program enables participants to be academically challenged, spending a year attending and auditing Columbia courses. See more details here.

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News + Events

Meet the people and ideas shaping the fellowship. Explore faculty conversations, program news, and opportunities to learn more.

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New York City

One Extraordinary university. One extraordinary city. Explore the city beyond the classroom.

The program follows Columbia University's Academic Calendar. 

  • September through December
  • January through May
  • An orientation session in late summer prior to the first day of classes

 

If you're interested in learning more, please complete this form. We will notify you of milestones, news, and other happenings.