Columbia College
The Vibe Check
Columbia College offers a close-knit, intimate campus atmosphere where small class sizes foster direct interaction with professors. The urban setting in the heart of downtown Columbia provides a blend of academic focus and city access, creating a supportive environment for students who prefer a manageable campus size over a large university feel.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The college is recognized for strong programs in Education, Criminal Justice, and Business & Marketing, emphasizing practical career preparation. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, teaching quality is personalized, and students have opportunities for hands-on learning through internships and community partnerships rather than extensive research labs.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Columbia
Students enjoy Columbia's vibrant downtown scene with local coffee shops, live music venues, and the famous True/False Film Festival. Outdoor activities are easy to access nearby, and the University of Missouri's presence adds college-town energy with sports events and additional cultural options.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($41,338):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in downtown Columbia, which is generally considered safe with active campus security measures. The urban setting means students should be aware of their surroundings, but the city has a relatively low crime rate compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High acceptance rate of 95.79% makes it accessible for many students
- ✓ Uniform tuition rate of $21,450 benefits both in-state and out-of-state applicants
- ✓ Strong programs in Education and Health Professions offer clear career pathways
- ✓ Small enrollment of 1,245 ensures personalized attention and community feel
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate of 54.4% and retention rate of 52.9% may indicate challenges in student support
- ✗ 10-year median earnings of $41,338 are below the national average for college graduates
- ✗ Urban setting might lack the traditional 'campus' feel for those seeking a residential college experience
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Columbia College is known for its programs in Education, Criminal Justice, Business & Marketing, Health Professions, Psychology, and Biology & Biomedical. It emphasizes career-oriented education with a focus on accessibility and personalized learning in an urban setting.
No, it is not hard to get into, with an acceptance rate of 95.79%. The admissions process is holistic, but the high rate means most applicants who meet basic requirements are likely to be admitted.
Campus life is intimate and community-focused due to the small enrollment of 1,245 students. Located in downtown Columbia, students have easy access to city amenities, local events, and outdoor activities, while enjoying a supportive academic environment.
The value depends on career goals; with tuition at $21,450 and a net price of $23,650, it is affordable for a private college. However, the 10-year median earnings of $41,338 suggest it may be worth it for those entering stable fields like Education or Health Professions, though ROI is moderate compared to higher-earning institutions.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,498
- In-State Tuition $21,450
- Zip Code 65216
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
At $21,450 for both in-state and out-of-state tuition, the cost is relatively affordable compared to many private institutions. However, with a 10-year median earnings of $41,338 and an average net price of $23,650, the return on investment is moderate, making it a solid choice for those entering high-demand fields like Health Professions or Education.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.