Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Columbia College Chicago

Chicago, Illinois · www.colum.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

89.5%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$34,088

$54,717 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

5,422

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

39.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 47.2%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Columbia College Chicago is a vibrant institution located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, known for its focus on arts and media. Established in 1890, it has developed a remarkable reputation for providing an innovative and comprehensive education in various creative fields, including film, fashion, music, and visual arts. The college's urban campus is strategically situated amidst the bustling cultural scene of Chicago, allowing students to immerse themselves in the city's rich artistic heritage. This prime location provides numerous opportunities for internships, networking, and hands-on experiences that are crucial for students pursuing careers in the arts.

The college prides itself on its diverse and inclusive environment, fostering a sense of community among its students and faculty. With a student body representing all 50 states and over 70 countries, Columbia College Chicago offers a multicultural atmosphere that enriches the educational experience. The faculty comprises accomplished professionals and artists who bring real-world expertise to the classroom, ensuring that students receive not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills relevant to their chosen fields. Columbia College Chicago's commitment to creativity, collaboration, and social responsibility is encapsulated in its motto, "The Art of the Possible," reflecting the institution's dedication to empowering students to explore their passions and realize their potential in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Columbia College Chicago

Columbia College Chicago, a private institution, has experienced significant changes across several key metrics over recent years. One of the most notable trends is the increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose dramatically from $22,792 to $32,520, reflecting a staggering increase of over 42%. This trend is concerning, especially as higher education costs continue to outpace inflation, potentially limiting access for many prospective students.

Another critical area to examine is student enrollment. There has been a steady decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 10,310 in 2013 to just 6,424 in 2023. This decline of approximately 37% raises questions about the institution's appeal, student retention strategies, and overall market competitiveness. Coupled with fluctuating graduation rates, which saw a rise in the on-time graduation rate to 41.7% in 2023 from 26.5% in 2013, it indicates that while fewer students are enrolling, those who do may be finding greater success in completing their programs.

Moreover, the retention rate for undergraduate students has shown variability, peaking at 71.5% in 2020 but dipping to 62.1% in 2022 before rebounding to 67.2% in 2023. This fluctuation suggests that while some students are satisfied with their experience at Columbia College, others are not, which could be attributed to various factors, including academic support, campus culture, and financial pressures.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio, which has increased slightly from 10:1 in 2013 to 15:1 in 2023, may impact the quality of education and personalized attention students receive. A higher ratio can often lead to larger class sizes and less individual support, potentially affecting student satisfaction and performance.

Overall, Columbia College Chicago is at a crossroads where it must address rising costs, declining enrollment, and fluctuating success metrics to enhance its attractiveness and ensure a quality educational experience for future students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Chicago
Nearest international airport
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 9 mi
Chicago, Illinois
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Shantay Bolton (President)
Phone
3123691000
City
Chicago, Illinois
Address
600 South Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605-1996

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
86.7%
Women
91.1%

In 2020: men 86.3%, women 92.5%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Columbia College Chicago

The admission data for Columbia College Chicago reveals interesting trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants has fluctuated, reaching a high of approximately 93.8% in 2022, while the female acceptance rate peaked at around 96.7% in the same year. This suggests that the college has maintained a relatively inclusive approach to admissions, especially for female applicants.
However, the overall number of students enrolled has seen a decline from 2014 to 2019, with the highest enrollment of 2,161 students in 2014 dropping to just 1,306 students by 2019. This could point to a variety of factors influencing student choice, including changes in program offerings, financial considerations, or shifts in the college's reputation. Interestingly, the number of students denied admission has remained consistently high, indicating that while the college is accepting a significant percentage of applicants, there remains a substantial pool of applicants who are not admitted.
The trend of deferrals is also noteworthy, as it indicates that many students may be considering or opting for a gap year or other opportunities before committing to their education. This could be reflective of broader trends in higher education where students are increasingly weighing their options more carefully.
Overall, while the college appears to be accommodating a growing number of applicants, the declining enrollment figures warrant further investigation into the factors affecting prospective students' decisions.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Insights on Admission Test Scores at Columbia College Chicago

The data presented for Columbia College Chicago lacks specific details, particularly regarding the SAT and ACT scores for the years from 2007 to 2023. Notably, the absence of both submission numbers and score ranges indicates a potential gap in transparency surrounding admissions metrics. This can lead to uncertainty for prospective students who rely on these figures to gauge their competitiveness within the applicant pool.

In recent years, many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. Columbia College Chicago appears to follow this trend, with no available data suggesting a strong emphasis on standardized tests, which may reflect a broader shift towards holistic admissions practices. This approach often values a student's portfolio, creativity, and overall potential over mere test scores, aligning with the institution's focus on arts and communication programs.

Additionally, given the national discourse surrounding the effectiveness of standardized testing, this lack of data could be interpreted as a strategic choice to prioritize diverse applicant backgrounds and experiences over traditional metrics. As colleges and universities continue to navigate the changing landscape of admissions, it is important for institutions to communicate their evaluation criteria clearly to ensure that prospective students are well-informed about how to present their qualifications effectively.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

7,079 applicants in 2025, 89.5% admitted

6,333 admitted 746 not admitted Yield 15.1%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1,32448 international (3.6%)
Master's5518 international (32.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
251
Fashion/Apparel Design
104
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects
76
Acting
70
Graphic Design
64
Illustration
57
Music Management
52
Photography
49
Creative Writing
48
Acoustics
45

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Creative Writing · Master's12 (0% international)
  • Music, Other · Master's12 (58% international)
  • Fine and Studio Arts Management · Master's11 (18% international)
  • Film/Cinema/Media Studies · Master's8 (75% international)
  • Business/Corporate Communications, General · Master's4 (75% international)
  • Fine/Studio Arts, General · Master's3 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Columbia College Chicago

The graduation data from Columbia College Chicago reveals interesting trends across various fields of study, particularly in the performing arts and communication disciplines. Notably, the Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects program leads with 212 graduates, indicating a strong interest and demand in digital arts, which is consistent with current trends in the entertainment and gaming industries.

The performing arts category is also prominent, showcasing a robust pipeline of talent with multiple programs yielding significant graduation numbers. For instance, the Musical Theatre and Game and Interactive Media Design programs have produced 38 and 48 graduates, respectively. This reflects a growing recognition of the arts and entertainment sector, particularly as it continues to evolve with digital innovations.

International students also play a vital role in the diversity of the college's programs, particularly in the bachelor’s degree categories where international graduates number significantly in fields such as Graphic Design and Fashion/Apparel Design. The presence of international students can enrich the academic environment and foster a multicultural perspective, essential in today’s globalized job market.

Furthermore, it's worth noting that traditional disciplines like journalism are witnessing lower graduation numbers, suggesting a shift in student interests toward more contemporary and technologically driven areas. This mirrors broader societal changes where digital communication and media are increasingly vital, highlighting the need for academic institutions to adapt their curricula to meet evolving industry demands.

Overall, Columbia College Chicago's graduation data not only illustrates the popularity of certain majors but also reflects wider trends in education and the job market, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the dynamics of student interest and industry requirements.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Visual and Performing artshas 1017 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Dance, General.-
Fashion/Apparel Design.$38,905
Interior Design.$38,905
Graphic Design.$38,905
Illustration.$38,905
Game and Interactive Media Design.$38,905
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.$27,894
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.$27,894
Acting.$27,894
Musical Theatre.$27,894
Comedy Writing and Performance.$27,894
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.$30,716
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.$30,716
Photography.$30,716
Documentary Production.$30,716
Fine/Studio Arts, General.$33,028
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.$33,028
Intermedia/Multimedia.$33,028
Music, General.$25,208
Music Theory and Composition.$25,208
Music Technology.$25,208
Music, Other.$25,208
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General.$39,601-$49,053
Fine and Studio Arts Management.$39,601-$49,053
Music Management.$39,601-$49,053
Community/Environmental/Socially-Engaged Art.-
Communication has 88 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.$36,632
Journalism.$40,991
Photojournalism.$40,991
Radio and Television.$33,537
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.$33,537
Public Relations/Image Management.$43,908
Advertising.$43,908
Communications technologies has 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Recording Arts Technology/Technician.$31,949
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.$28,397
English has 73 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.$26,973-$47,989
Physical scienceshas 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Acoustics.$42,234
Businesshas 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business/Corporate Communications, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$43,402
Foreign languages has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sign Language Interpretation and Translation.$37,067
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Cultural has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Deaf Studies.-
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other.-
Computer and information sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Programming/Programmer, General.-
Liberal arts has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
General Studies.-

Students

5,570 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 66.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,422)

White
2,129 · 39.3%
Hispanic
1,527 · 28.2%
Black
1,010 · 18.6%
Two or more races
257 · 4.7%
International
236 · 4.4%
Asian
198 · 3.7%
Unknown
50 · 0.9%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Columbia College Chicago Students in 2023

In 2023, Columbia College Chicago showcases a diverse student body across different classifications. The undergraduate new students, comprising 1,606 individuals, have a notable gender distribution with 39.2% identifying as male and 60.8% as female. This trend of higher female representation is consistent across other groups, including undergraduate continuing students and undergraduate transfer students.

For undergraduate continuing students, the total number is 4,281, with a gender ratio of 39.6% males and 60.4% females. Similarly, undergraduate transfer students, numbering 491, also reflect a slightly higher female presence at 57.2%. This pattern highlights a broader trend in higher education, where female enrollment often outpaces male enrollment, particularly in arts and communication fields, which Columbia specializes in.

Graduate students, though fewer in number at 222, maintain a comparable gender ratio with 40.1% males and 59.9% females, further supporting the notion of female dominance in enrollment across various academic levels.

Additionally, the ethnic diversity within the student population is essential to consider. Although specific data on ethnic breakdowns for some groups are not fully available, it is evident that Columbia College values inclusivity and representation, making efforts to attract a diverse range of students. This commitment to diversity aligns with national trends in higher education, where institutions strive to create environments that reflect the multicultural fabric of society.

Overall, these figures indicate a vibrant and diverse educational community at Columbia College Chicago, contributing to enriched learning experiences for all students.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Columbia College Chicago

The age distribution of students at Columbia College Chicago reveals a predominantly young demographic, particularly among undergraduates. The largest group consists of students aged 18-19, with over 1,000 male and 1,600 female undergraduates, illustrating a strong influx of fresh high school graduates into higher education. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that younger students make up a significant portion of college enrollment, reflecting a broader societal shift towards valuing higher education immediately after secondary schooling.

As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers remain robust, although a slight decline is noticed in the male undergraduate population. Interestingly, the total number of female undergraduates remains consistently higher across age brackets, suggesting a growing trend of female participation in higher education. In the 22-24 age group, female undergraduates account for approximately 52% of students, indicating a persistent gender gap favoring females in college attendance.

However, as we examine older age groups, the enrollment numbers drop significantly. For instance, in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets, both male and female populations are negligible compared to the younger cohorts. This decline might reflect the challenges faced by non-traditional students, including financial constraints, work commitments, or family responsibilities, which are often barriers to continuing education later in life.

Overall, the data portrays a vibrant and youthful student body at Columbia College Chicago, with a notable emphasis on female representation. The trend underscores the importance of supporting diverse pathways for students of all ages to ensure equitable access to education.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates4.4%

236 in 2025 · 3.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.4%2017: 3.7%2018: 4.7%2019: 5.1%2020: 4.8%2021: 3.2%2022: 3.3%2023: 3.8%2024: 3.9%2025: 4.4%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students31.1%

46 in 2025 · 13.3% in 2016

0% 17.5% 35% 2016: 13.3%2017: 18.0%2018: 18.2%2019: 19.5%2020: 21.3%2021: 23.3%2022: 23.0%2023: 27.9%2024: 29.7%2025: 31.1%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Columbia College Chicago

The data on international student enrollment at Columbia College Chicago reveals significant fluctuations over nearly two decades. For undergraduate students, the percentage of international students peaked in 2023 at 3.78%, a notable increase from the lows of 1.24% in 2007. This growth indicates a positive trend in attracting a diverse student body, which is essential for fostering a global perspective within the educational environment.

In contrast, the graduate student enrollment statistics present an even more compelling narrative. The proportion of international graduate students reached an impressive 27.93% in 2023, up from just 6.31% in 2004. This dramatic rise reflects the institution's enhanced reputation and appeal among graduate candidates from around the world, likely driven by the quality of programs offered and the vibrant urban setting of Chicago, which is known for its cultural diversity and professional opportunities.

The overall decline in total student enrollment over the years raises questions about the institution's strategies to maintain and grow its student population, especially in the face of global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, the increasing percentages of international students suggest that Columbia College Chicago is successfully positioning itself as an attractive destination for students seeking a global education. This trend aligns with broader national patterns in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse perspectives brought by international students. As global mobility resumes, it will be interesting to see how these numbers evolve and what strategies the college will implement to sustain this growth.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$54,717

Undergraduate tuition
$34,088
Room and board
$20,629
Graduate tuition
$2,544
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 58%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$170M

Tuition and fees
$103M60.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$31.6M18.7%
Investment return
$28.0M16.5%
Gifts and private grants
$4.8M2.8%
Government grants and contracts
$1.2M0.7%
Sales and services of educational activities
$453K0.3%

Expenses$185M

Instruction
$63.6M34.4%
Institutional support
$35.0M18.9%
Student services
$33.9M18.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$31.2M16.9%
Academic support
$20.1M10.9%
Public service
$1.1M0.6%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$83,908peers $68,006
Professor
$108,084peers $78,041
Associate professor
$86,054peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$73,335peers $63,827
Lecturer
$69,610peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Columbia College Chicago is surrounded by several prestigious institutions of higher education. Here are some notable schools in the area:

  1. University of Chicago - Ranked 12th in the US News 2024 rankings, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty. It is particularly known for its contributions to economics, law, and social sciences.

  2. Northwestern University - With a rank of 9, Northwestern University is a leading private research university located in Evanston, Illinois. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary studies.

  3. University of Illinois Chicago - Ranked 82nd, this public research university offers a wide array of programs and is particularly noted for its medical and health sciences, as well as its commitment to diversity and community engagement.

  4. DePaul University - With a ranking of 151, DePaul University is one of the largest Catholic universities in the United States, known for its emphasis on experiential learning and a diverse student body.

  5. Loyola University Chicago - Ranked 142nd, Loyola is known for its strong programs in business, education, and health sciences. It is a Jesuit university that emphasizes social justice and community service.

These institutions not only provide a wealth of educational opportunities but also contribute to the vibrant academic and cultural landscape of the Chicago area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
386
Drug referrals
92
Stalking
34
Motor vehicle theft
33
Robbery
24
Rape
17

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analyzing Crime Trends at Columbia College Chicago

The crime statistics from Columbia College Chicago reveal a noteworthy trend in campus safety over the past decade. The data shows a gradual decline in the crime rate per 1,000 students, dropping from approximately 21% in 2013 to just over 14% in 2022. This decrease suggests that the college has made significant strides in enhancing campus security and fostering a safer environment for its students.

A closer look at specific crime categories offers additional insights. Notably, the number of drug-related arrests and incidents of alcohol abuse has significantly impacted overall crime rates. While there has been a consistent number of incidents reported, the overall downward trend in crime rates indicates effective prevention strategies and community outreach programs.

Moreover, it is essential to consider that the year 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, saw a notable drop in on-campus crime, aligning with broader public safety trends. The 2021 and 2022 statistics reflect a continued commitment to maintaining safety, despite fluctuations in overall crime numbers.

This data underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and community engagement in addressing crime on college campuses. As educational institutions prioritize student safety and well-being, transparent reporting of crime statistics will remain crucial in building trust and fostering a secure learning environment.

For more information on how to calculate crime rates, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Columbia College Chicago include Alexander Rybak (Belarusian-Norwegian singer, songwriter and violinist), Phyllis Diller (Stand-up comedian, actress and author) and Michelle Monaghan (Actress known for Source Code).

See all 24 notable alumni of Columbia College Chicago →

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.