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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Columbia College

Columbia, South Carolina · www.columbiasc.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

93.9%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$20,054

$29,444 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,391

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

47.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 55.5%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Columbia College is a prestigious liberal arts college located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1890, it has a rich history and is known for its commitment to providing students with a comprehensive education that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives. The college’s mission is encapsulated in its guiding principle, which is to prepare students for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and service. One of the notable features of Columbia College is its strong emphasis on arts and media, making it a prime destination for students interested in fields such as film, music, theater, and visual arts. The college boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced production studios and performance spaces that foster a vibrant creative environment.

In addition to its academic offerings, Columbia College is known for its diverse and inclusive campus culture. The student body is comprised of individuals from various backgrounds, contributing to a rich tapestry of ideas and experiences that enhance the learning environment. The college promotes a robust student life, offering numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that encourage participation and community engagement. Furthermore, Columbia College is strategically located in downtown Chicago, providing students with access to an array of cultural events, internships, and job opportunities that enhance their educational experience. Graduates of Columbia College have gone on to achieve significant success in various industries, reflecting the college's dedication to nurturing talent and preparing students for the competitive job market.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from Columbia College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention that are worth discussing. Over the years, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has shown a general upward trend, peaking at $28,900 in 2017 before experiencing a notable drop to $16,745 in 2024. This decline in tuition may reflect broader economic conditions or a strategic decision by the institution to make education more accessible. However, the cost of graduate programs has steadily increased, reaching $15,216 in 2024, which raises concerns about the financial burden on students pursuing advanced degrees.

Graduation rates have also fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improving significantly from 43.3% in 2013 to 59.6% in 2023. This upward trend indicates that students are increasingly completing their degrees within the expected timeframe, which is a positive sign for the institution’s academic support and student engagement initiatives. The 150% graduation rate, which considers students who take longer to graduate, also saw an increase, suggesting that the overall educational experience is enhancing student success.

In terms of student retention, there has been a noticeable decline from 74.0% in 2015 to around 55.5% in 2023. This decline is concerning as it suggests that fewer students are choosing to continue their education at Columbia College. Factors contributing to this trend could include financial pressures from rising tuition costs or dissatisfaction with the academic experience.

In conclusion, while Columbia College shows positive trends in graduation rates, the decline in student retention and the mixed signals regarding tuition costs pose challenges that the institution may need to address to maintain its reputation and ensure student success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Columbia, about 7 mi
Nearest international airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 80 mi
Columbia, South Carolina
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
John Dozier (President)
Phone
8037863012
City
Columbia, South Carolina
Address
1301 Columbia College Dr, Columbia, SC 29203

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
93.7%
Women
94.3%

In 2020: men 100.0%, women 96.6%.

Data insights

Columbia College Admission Trends

The admission data from Columbia College reveals intriguing trends over the years regarding gender admission rates and overall enrollment figures. Notably, the male admission rate fluctuated significantly, with some years exhibiting a 100% acceptance rate, while female admission rates demonstrated a more gradual decline, reaching as low as 64.6% in 2013. This disparity raises questions about the dynamics of gender representation in admissions, especially in a time where many institutions are striving for gender equity.
The enrollment numbers also tell a compelling story. For instance, in 2022, the college admitted 210 students while denying only 18, indicating a potentially competitive selection process. However, the number of deferred admissions has varied considerably, peaking at 1,050 in 2022, which might suggest that many students are opting to delay their start at the college, perhaps due to ongoing uncertainties in the world, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, the overall acceptance rates for females remained consistently higher than for males in the later years, reaching as high as 98.6% in 2022 compared to a lower male acceptance rate. This trend could reflect the changing demographics of applicants and the college's strategic efforts to balance gender representation.
As higher education continues to evolve amidst shifting societal norms and challenges, Columbia College's data provides a window into how these changes are impacting student admissions and institutional priorities.

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

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Columbia College

The data from Columbia College reveals notable trends in SAT and ACT scores over the years, reflecting the evolving landscape of college admissions. From 2007 to 2023, the number of students submitting SAT scores has generally decreased, with the most significant drop occurring in recent years, where only 7% of admitted students submitted SAT scores in 2023, down from 87% in 2007. This decline indicates a shift towards test-optional policies, which many institutions have adopted in response to growing concerns about equity in standardized testing.

In terms of score ranges, the 25th to 75th percentile data presents a mixed picture. For instance, SAT reading scores have fluctuated, with the lower threshold for the 25th percentile dropping from 450 in 2007 to 420 in 2017 before rising again to 460 in 2023. This suggests that while fewer students are taking standardized tests, the students who do submit scores tend to have a wider range of abilities.

Interestingly, ACT scores also show variability, with the range for composite scores demonstrating both decline and recovery over the years. The decreasing number of submissions could lead to a more competitive environment for those who do take the tests, as they might feel pressured to achieve higher scores to stand out.

This trend aligns with national conversations about the role of standardized testing in higher education, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted a reevaluation of assessment methods. As colleges continue to adapt their admissions processes, the implications for student diversity and access to education remain critical topics for discussion.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

2,634 applicants in 2025, 93.9% admitted

2,474 admitted 160 not admitted Yield 8.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's3541 international (0.3%)
Master's2500 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
47
Business Administration and Management, General
45
Psychology, General
38
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist
33
Special Education and Teaching, General
29
Education, General
17
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
15
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
14
Computer and Information Sciences, General
11
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management
9

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Education, Other · Master's132 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's42 (0% international)
  • Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's17 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's17 (0% international)
  • Criminal Justice/Safety Studies · Master's16 (0% international)
  • Organizational Leadership · Master's16 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Columbia College 2023

The graduation data from Columbia College in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Notably, the field of education, particularly special education and general education, produced a significant number of graduates at the master's level, with a total of 150 graduates in education (other) and smaller numbers in other educational categories. This reflects the growing emphasis on education reform and the demand for qualified educators in the workforce, especially in light of recent educational challenges posed by the pandemic.

Additionally, the healthcare-related programs, including registered nursing and health administration, also stand out. With increasing awareness of public health and the critical need for healthcare professionals, it is no surprise that these programs have seen a consistent number of graduates, indicating a robust interest and need for careers in this sector.

Interestingly, the international student graduation rates in bachelor programs, particularly in psychology, highlight the appeal of psychological studies among non-native students. This trend aligns with global mental health awareness efforts, emphasizing the importance of psychological education in diverse contexts.

Furthermore, the absence of doctorate graduates in several fields, particularly business and education, suggests that while there is a foundation of undergraduate and master's education, there may be limited opportunities or interest in pursuing doctoral studies in these areas. This could point towards potential opportunities for program expansion or development.

Overall, the data reflects current societal needs and educational priorities, underscoring the vital role of Columbia College in preparing graduates for key sectors in a changing job market. The trends observed here can guide future curricular developments and recruitment strategies to better align educational offerings with workforce demands.

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

Educationhas 239 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$56,546
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration.$56,546
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$41,333
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$41,333
Education, Other.$53,471
Businesshas 91 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$54,158-$55,259
Organizational Leadership.$54,158-$55,259
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$54,158-$55,259
Accounting.-
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.-
Homeland security has 73 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$46,506-$54,255
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.-
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management.$68,455
Health professionshas 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Public Health, General.-
Psychology has 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Forensic Psychology.-
Biologyhas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Public administrationhas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Community Organization and Advocacy.-
Social Work.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Behavioral Sciences.-
Business Analytics.-
Computer and information sciencehas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Dance, General.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Communication has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Human science has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Development and Family Studies, General.-
Social sciencehas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-

Students

1,725 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 21:79 · Freshman retention 60.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,391)

Black
550 · 39.5%
White
517 · 37.2%
Hispanic
136 · 9.8%
Unknown
106 · 7.6%
Asian
34 · 2.4%
International
14 · 1.0%
Two or more races
8 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.4%
18–19
16.1%
20–21
18.4%
22–24
18.2%
25 and over
46.5%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
10.2%
25–29
17.4%
30–34
16.5%
35 and over
56.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Columbia College in 2023

The student population at Columbia College in 2023 presents a diverse and interesting landscape. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 190 students, with a significant majority of 71.6% identifying as female, compared to 28.4% male. This trend continues among the upperclassmen, where the female representation rises to a striking 86.5%, leaving only 13.5% male students. Such a disparity raises questions about the factors influencing these enrollment patterns, particularly in a higher education environment that is increasingly focused on equity and inclusivity.

In the transfer student category, there are 185 students, again showcasing a female majority of 83.8%. Interestingly, the graduate student demographic follows a similar pattern, with 341 students and 86.8% identifying as female. This consistent trend across various levels of study indicates a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education institutions, which could reflect broader societal shifts towards empowering women in academia.

Looking at the ethnic breakdown, while specific numbers are not provided for the upperclassmen and graduates, the data shows that among freshmen, white students constitute a small portion of the population at 49 out of 190. This suggests that Columbia College is attracting a relatively diverse student body, which is crucial for enriching the academic environment and fostering a broad range of perspectives.

Overall, the demographic data from Columbia College reveals a strong female presence across all student categories, alongside a commitment to diversity, which is vital for cultivating an inclusive educational atmosphere. As trends in higher education continue to evolve, monitoring these dynamics will be essential for understanding and addressing the needs of all students.

Analysis of Age Distribution Among Columbia College Students

The age distribution data from Columbia College reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body for the year 2023. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising a significant portion of undergraduates, particularly females, with 200 enrolled. This trend aligns with the national pattern where many students enter college immediately after completing high school, indicating the institution's role as a traditional stepping stone for young adults.

As we examine older age brackets, a gradual decline in student numbers is observed. For instance, only 175 students are aged 25-29, highlighting a potential trend of older students returning to academia, though the numbers remain lower than younger cohorts. This could reflect the ongoing shift in career paths and the necessity for continual education, especially in the current job market where skills become obsolete rapidly.

Interestingly, the representation of postgraduate students is notable, especially in the 22-24 age range, suggesting that many students are progressing to graduate studies immediately after their undergraduate degrees. However, the numbers drop significantly for older age groups, indicating that as students age, there may be increasing challenges or commitments that prevent them from pursuing further education.

Overall, the gender distribution shows a predominance of female students across almost all age categories, which is consistent with broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has increasingly outpaced male enrollment in recent years. This demographic information is crucial for understanding the evolving landscape of higher education and addressing the needs of a diverse student body.

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.

Undergraduates1.0%

14 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.2%2017: 2.4%2018: 3.0%2019: 1.5%2020: 0.9%2021: 0.2%2022: 0.3%2023: 0.9%2024: 0.8%2025: 1.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students1.8%

6 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.0%2017: 4.5%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.8%2022: 1.5%2023: 1.8%2024: 2.0%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Students at Columbia College

The data on international student enrollment at Columbia College reveals some interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated significantly. In the early years, such as 2004, international students comprised only 0.67% of the undergraduate population, a figure that increased gradually over the years, peaking at 2.97% in 2018. However, the subsequent years saw a decline, with only 0.94% in 2023, indicating a potential challenge for the institution in maintaining its appeal to international students.

The graduate student statistics present a more promising picture, with the percentage of international graduate students experiencing a notable rise, especially in 2017 when it reached 4.55%. This suggests that while undergraduate enrollment may have faced challenges, the graduate program has been more successful in attracting international talent.

These trends may reflect broader patterns in higher education, including shifts in immigration policies, global mobility, and the rising competition among institutions to attract international students. The COVID-19 pandemic likely impacted enrollment figures, as evidenced by the sharp drop in total students in 2021.

Overall, Columbia College's experience mirrors the larger narrative within U.S. higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of diversifying their student bodies. It will be essential for Columbia College to implement strategic initiatives to enhance its visibility and attractiveness to international students in the coming years, particularly in undergraduate programs.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$29,444

Undergraduate tuition
$20,054
Room and board
$9,390
Graduate tuition
$15,630
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 -29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.5M

Tuition and fees
$19.3M56.0%
Investment return
$4.8M13.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.2M9.4%
Gifts and private grants
$2.8M8.1%
Government grants and contracts
$1.3M3.9%
Other
$3.1M8.9%

Expenses$29.2M

Instruction
$10.6M36.4%
Student services
$8.3M28.5%
Institutional support
$7.1M24.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.0M6.8%
Academic support
$1.2M4.1%

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
$53,484peers $68,006
Professor
$70,765peers $78,041
Associate professor
$58,351peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$51,895peers $63,827
Lecturer
$46,246peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Appalachian Athletic Conference

Appalachian Athletic Conference: basketball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer3729
Track and Field (Indoor)3135
Track and Field (Outdoor)3135
Basketball1621
Softball-25
Tennis119
Volleyball-17
Golf112
Swimming49
Cross Country66
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)9490
Soccer3024
Softball-29
Basketball-17
Volleyball-16
Tennis86
Swimming47
Golf53
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7888
Soccer2926
Softball-32
Volleyball-23
Basketball-22
Swimming610
Golf74
Tennis64

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Columbia College:

  1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of South Carolina-Columbia - With a rank of 124, the University of South Carolina-Columbia is known for its diverse academic offerings and strong emphasis on research and community engagement.

  3. Wake Forest University - This university is ranked 47th and is recognized for its commitment to liberal arts education, offering a personalized educational experience.

  4. Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson University is known for its strong engineering and business programs, as well as its beautiful campus.

  5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - A highly esteemed institution, UNC Chapel Hill holds the 22nd rank and is celebrated for its academic excellence and vibrant student life.

  6. Furman University - With a rank of 46, Furman University is a liberal arts college that emphasizes a personalized education and strong community involvement.

  7. Davidson College - Ranked 16th, Davidson College is a highly selective liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and commitment to fostering a close-knit community.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the Columbia 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

Aggravated assault
19
Domestic violence
14
Drug arrests
8
Motor vehicle theft
6
Stalking
4
Robbery
3

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

Data insights

Trends in Campus Crime at Columbia College

The data on campus crime at Columbia College reveals concerning trends over the past decade. Notably, there has been a significant increase in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students, rising from 2.39 in 2013 to an alarming 14.80 in 2023. This escalation raises questions about student safety and the effectiveness of current policies aimed at preventing crime.

A closer look at the types of crimes shows that arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol violations have fluctuated, but the overall rise in incidents suggests a broader issue. In particular, the year 2022 marked a dramatic spike in crime rates, with a total of 15.4 offenses reported, a stark contrast to previous years. This spike could be indicative of a growing culture of substance abuse or perhaps a response to external societal pressures, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student behavior and mental health.

Furthermore, the increase in domestic violence and assault incidents is particularly troubling. The rise in these serious offenses not only affects the individuals involved but also creates a pervasive atmosphere of fear and anxiety among the student body. It is crucial for the college administration to address these issues proactively, potentially by enhancing support services, implementing educational programs, and fostering a more robust campus security presence.

As the statistics indicate a troubling trajectory, it is imperative for Columbia College to prioritize student safety and well-being. This involves not just addressing the criminal incidents themselves, but also understanding and mitigating the underlying factors that contribute to these alarming trends. For those interested in understanding how to calculate crime rates, more information can be found at this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Columbia College include Bettye Ackerman (American television and film actress), Carol Miller (U.S. Representative from West Virginia) and Jenn Colella (Actress and singer known for musical theatre).

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.