Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Columbia College

Columbia, Missouri · www.ccis.edu

中文

Tuition per year

$12,276

$21,828 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

5,207

Student-faculty ratio 20:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

30.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 41.3%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Columbia College, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship among its students. Established in 1890, the college emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, encouraging students to engage in real-world experiences through internships, collaborative projects, and community service. The college's motto, "A World of Opportunity," reflects its dedication to providing diverse educational experiences that prepare students for the complexities of the modern workforce. With a vibrant campus culture that celebrates artistic expression, Columbia College stands out for its strong programs in the arts, media, and communication fields, making it a hub for aspiring creatives.

The college boasts a dynamic student life with various student organizations, cultural events, and extracurricular activities that promote personal growth and community engagement. Its prime location in the heart of Chicago provides students with ample opportunities to connect with industry professionals and access a wealth of resources. Columbia College is also known for its commitment to student success, offering robust academic support services and career development programs designed to help graduates thrive in their chosen fields. With a diverse student body and a faculty composed of accomplished professionals, Columbia College creates an inclusive environment that nurtures talent and encourages collaboration, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from Columbia College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years.

Firstly, tuition for undergraduate students has steadily increased from $6,200 in 2014 to $12,268 in 2024 for both in-state and out-of-state students. This nearly 97% increase over a decade reflects the broader trend in higher education, where rising tuition costs have become a critical concern for students and families. The escalating expenses can lead to increased student debt, which has become a national issue in recent years, prompting discussions about the affordability and accessibility of higher education.

In terms of graduation rates, the figures demonstrate a troubling decline. The on-time graduation rate fell from approximately 28% in 2013 to around 14% in 2023. This drop raises concerns about student success and the effectiveness of institutional support systems. A decreasing graduation rate can have long-term implications, not just for the institution's reputation but also for the employability and financial stability of its graduates.

Moreover, student retention rates have shown a fluctuation over the years, peaking at about 69% in 2019 but then dropping to around 62% in 2023. This inconsistency suggests challenges in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction. High retention rates are crucial for the overall health of an institution, as they often correlate with student satisfaction and the perceived value of the educational experience.

In conclusion, while Columbia College's tuition has risen significantly, the concurrent decline in graduation rates and fluctuating retention rates highlight potential areas for improvement. Addressing these issues may require a comprehensive strategy focusing on academic support, financial aid, and student engagement to enhance the overall educational experience and outcomes for students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
St. Louis, about 110 mi
Nearest international airport
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), about 110 mi
Columbia, Missouri
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
President
Dr. David Russell (President)
Phone
8002312391
City
Columbia, Missouri
Address
1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, MO 65216

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Nursing School#336 Computer Science#502
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate42913 international (3.0%)
Bachelor's1,03117 international (1.6%)
Master's16311 international (6.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
General Studies
188
Business/Commerce, General
162
Psychology, General
84
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
72
Human Services, General
57
Accounting
54
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General
49
Finance, General
36
Business Administration and Management, General
33
Information Science/Studies
27

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business/Commerce, General · Master's109 (10% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's24 (0% international)
  • Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's16 (0% international)
  • Accounting · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Business Analytics · Master's4 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Columbia College 2023

The graduation statistics from Columbia College in 2023 reveal significant trends, particularly in the fields of business and health-related studies. Business programs, including general business and human resources management, account for a substantial portion of the bachelor's degrees awarded, reflecting the growing importance of business education in today’s economy. For instance, the college awarded 56 bachelor's degrees in business, alongside numerous master's degrees, indicating a strong demand for advanced business knowledge among graduates.

Health-related fields also show promise, with the nursing program producing notable numbers at both the bachelor and associate levels. The emphasis on health care education aligns with the national trends where healthcare professions are in high demand, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. This is evident as the college awarded 49 associate degrees in nursing, catering to the increasing need for healthcare professionals.

Interestingly, the data indicates a modest representation of international students in several programs. For example, there were only three international students graduating with a bachelor's degree in general studies. This could suggest potential areas for growth, as attracting more international students can enhance the diversity and global perspectives within these programs.

In contrast, fields like arts and humanities appear to have fewer graduates, which may reflect broader trends in enrollment as students increasingly favor career-oriented degrees. Overall, the data underscores the evolving landscape of higher education, where practical and market-driven programs are gaining traction among students.

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

Businesshas 581 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.$50,874-$70,753
Business Administration and Management, General.$59,919
Project Management.$59,919
Organizational Leadership.$59,919
Accounting.$58,410
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Finance, General.$56,844
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.$53,348
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$54,734
Real Estate.-
Liberal arts has 387 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$48,670-$50,359
General Studies.$48,670-$50,359
Health professionshas 138 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Health and Wellness, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$52,254
Pre-Nursing Studies.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$73,601-$78,222
Nursing Practice.$73,601-$78,222
Homeland security has 109 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$53,557-$69,226
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Computer and information sciencehas 89 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Information Science/Studies.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Public administrationhas 85 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Human Services, General.$40,973-$41,359
Public Administration.-
Psychology has 84 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$45,372
History has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.$56,029
Educationhas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.$42,296
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Biologyhas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$42,109
Biochemistry.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Visual and Performing artshas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Graphic Design.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Painting.-
Natural resources has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
English has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$40,699
Social sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$43,225
Human science has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Child Development.-
Communication has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Analytics.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Engineeringhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Pre-Engineering.-

Students

5,689 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 75.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,207)

White
2,769 · 53.2%
Black
1,089 · 20.9%
Hispanic
608 · 11.7%
Two or more races
313 · 6.0%
International
182 · 3.5%
Asian
98 · 1.9%
Unknown
92 · 1.8%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Columbia College in 2023

The student demographics at Columbia College for the year 2023 reveal intriguing trends in gender representation and ethnic diversity. The data indicates that among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a balanced gender ratio, with 46.6% being male and 53.4% female. This slight female majority reflects a broader trend in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

In contrast, the data for continuing undergraduates shows a more pronounced gender disparity, with males constituting only 39.5% and females 60.5%. This trend persists among transfer students as well, with 39.8% males and 60.2% females. The consistent female dominance in these categories suggests that Columbia College may be attracting a larger female student base, a phenomenon observed in many colleges across the United States, where women are increasingly pursuing higher education.

The graduate student population also mirrors this trend, with 36.4% being male and 63.6% female. This gender imbalance might be influenced by various factors, including the fields of study that attract more females, such as education and health sciences, compared to traditionally male-dominated fields.

When examining the racial and ethnic composition, the data for the freshmen class shows a significant portion of white students, which is a common trend in many institutions. However, specific figures for other racial categories are not detailed in the data provided, indicating a need for further exploration into the diversity of the student body.

Overall, the gender imbalance at Columbia College reflects larger societal trends in education, while the racial diversity metrics suggest areas for potential improvement in attracting a more varied student population. Continued efforts to enhance inclusivity and representation will be crucial for the college's future development.

Analysis of Age Demographics at Columbia College 2023

The age distribution of students at Columbia College in 2023 presents an intriguing landscape of educational demographics. The data shows a significant concentration of students in the 18-24 age range, particularly among undergraduates. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where traditional college-aged students dominate enrollment figures.

In the 18-19 age group, there are 169 male and 260 female undergraduates, reflecting a common trend of higher female enrollment in undergraduate programs. As students progress into the 20-21 age bracket, the total enrollment rises, with 248 females and 247 males, indicating a slight gender balance in this category. However, the numbers escalate dramatically in the 22-24 age group, where there are 522 female undergraduates compared to 352 males, highlighting a pronounced gender disparity as students transition into their mid-twenties.

Interestingly, the 25-29 age group showcases a strong presence of both male and female students, with 473 males and 805 females enrolled. This could indicate a trend of older students returning to education, which is increasingly common as more individuals seek advanced career opportunities or career changes.

The data also reveals a notable decline in numbers for students over 50, yet the presence of older students in the educational system emphasizes the growing acceptance and encouragement of lifelong learning. This reflects broader societal shifts towards valuing education at all stages of life.

Overall, the age demographics at Columbia College illustrate a vibrant, diverse student body, driven by both traditional-age undergraduates and a growing number of adult learners, indicative of the evolving landscape of higher education in the United States.

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.

Undergraduates3.5%

182 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.1%2017: 2.9%2018: 3.2%2019: 2.9%2020: 2.9%2021: 2.3%2022: 2.3%2023: 2.6%2024: 3.2%2025: 3.5%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students13.9%

67 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 2.4%2017: 3.9%2018: 3.4%2019: 4.8%2020: 5.7%2021: 8.2%2022: 7.0%2023: 8.6%2024: 10.4%2025: 13.9%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Columbia College

The data from Columbia College over the years highlights significant trends in the enrollment of international students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Starting from 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students was relatively low, around 0.93%. However, by 2023, this figure had risen to 2.57%, indicating a growing interest in the college among international applicants. This increase, although gradual, suggests that Columbia College has become more attractive to students from abroad, possibly due to its academic programs or campus initiatives targeting international recruitment.

In contrast, the graduate student population shows a more pronounced increase in the percentage of international students. The proportion rose from 3.37% in 2004 to a substantial 8.63% in 2023. This trend aligns with national patterns in higher education, where graduate programs often attract a higher percentage of international students compared to undergraduate programs, likely due to the availability of specialized programs and research opportunities.

The fluctuations observed in the overall numbers reflect broader global trends, including geopolitical factors and changes in immigration policies that influence international student mobility. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a noticeable decline in enrollments, particularly in 2021, but the recovery in subsequent years suggests resilience in the international student market.

Overall, Columbia College's data illustrate the evolving landscape of international education, where both undergraduate and graduate programs are increasingly becoming more diverse, enhancing the institution's global presence and enriching the campus experience for all students.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$21,828

Undergraduate tuition
$12,276
Room and board
$9,552
Graduate tuition
$8,477
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 75% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 52%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$64.2M

Tuition and fees
$42.7M66.5%
Investment return
$15.3M23.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.6M5.6%
Gifts and private grants
$894K1.4%
Government grants and contracts
$826K1.3%
Other
$883K1.4%

Expenses$78.0M

Instruction
$36.4M46.6%
Student services
$22.1M28.4%
Institutional support
$9.4M12.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.4M6.9%
Academic support
$4.6M5.9%

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
$74,128peers $68,006
Professor
$84,561peers $78,041
Associate professor
$79,535peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$70,619peers $63,827
Instructor
$60,911peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · American Midwest Conference

American Midwest Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)10674
Soccer4225
Baseball43-
Basketball1716
Golf158
Volleyball-22
Other Sports-22
Lacrosse21-
Softball-21
Bowling-12
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7862
Soccer4425
Baseball43-
Basketball1817
Golf189
Other Sports-22
Lacrosse19-
Softball-19
Volleyball-18
Bowling-10
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5531
Soccer3828
Baseball42-
Basketball1516
Golf1511
Other Sports-24
Volleyball-22
Lacrosse21-
Softball-17
Bowling-9

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Columbia College:

  1. Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, this university is known for its strong programs across various disciplines and an impressive campus.

  2. University of Missouri-Columbia - With a rank of 124, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it a significant institution in the region.

  3. Saint Louis University - Ranked 105, this university is a private Catholic institution that emphasizes research and community service.

  4. University of Iowa - Holding the 93rd spot, it is known for its strong programs in writing, business, and the arts.

  5. Grinnell College - As a highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 11th, Grinnell is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social justice.

  6. Principia College - This liberal arts college ranks 51st and is recognized for its unique educational philosophy and small class sizes.

These institutions provide a diverse range of academic opportunities within close proximity to Columbia College.

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
28
Motor vehicle theft
15
Drug arrests
9
Drug referrals
9
Burglary
7
Liquor arrests
4

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Columbia College: A Growing Concern

The crime statistics at Columbia College present a concerning narrative over the years, particularly in the context of increasing incidents. From 2013 to 2022, the average crime rate per 1,000 students has shown a significant rise, peaking at 3.55 in 2022. This represents a dramatic increase compared to previous years, especially when considering that in 2013, the rate was only 0.36.

Particularly alarming are the rising incidents of drug-related arrests and domestic violence, which are reflective of broader societal issues. The spike in crime rates during 2018 and 2020 may correlate with increased stressors faced by students, such as academic pressure and mental health challenges exacerbated by external factors, including the pandemic. The fluctuation in the data suggests that certain years were more prone to incidents, which could be linked to events or changes in campus policy.

Moreover, sexual offenses, including rape and sexual assault, remain critical concerns on college campuses nationwide, and the trends at Columbia College could indicate a need for more robust preventive measures and support systems. The sharp increase in crimes reported in 2022, alongside the rise in domestic violence cases, calls for immediate attention from college administration and community stakeholders.

Ultimately, these figures urge a collective reevaluation of campus safety measures, educational programs on substance abuse, and mental health support. It is essential to foster a safer environment for students and to address the underlying issues contributing to this disturbing trend. For further details on calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Columbia College include Nora Ikstena (Latvian writer and cultural manager), Sandy Adams (Former U.S. representative from Florida) and Julie Stevens (Radio actress, star of The Romance of Helen Trent).

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.