Overview
Established in 1890, the Columbia College Chicago is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Chicago (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Illinois.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Columbia College Chicago is a medium-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Columbia College Chicago offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 134-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
Columbia College Chicago also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Address, contact details, and online presence for Columbia College Chicago are summarised below.
Academic Details
Below are the institutional metrics for Columbia College Chicago: scale, staffing, and accreditation.
Academic Structures
The faculties, schools, and constituent units that make up Columbia College Chicago are listed below.
Unit 3 items
- School of Fine and Performing Arts
- School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- School of Media Arts
Programs Offered
All active programmes at Columbia College Chicago are listed by degree level.
39 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 26 programmes
Showing 10 of 26.
Master's Degree 12 programmes
Showing 10 of 12.
Postgraduate Certificate 1 programme
How to apply to Columbia College Chicago
Step-by-step guidance for applying to Columbia College Chicago, in five steps.
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1
Research programmes at Columbia College Chicago
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Columbia College Chicago offers 39 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Each programme at Columbia College Chicago has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Lodge your application
Apply directly via Columbia College Chicago's online portal at www.colum.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (312) 369 1000. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Columbia College Chicago
Common questions about Columbia College Chicago, answered from data on record.
In what year was Columbia College Chicago established?
Columbia College Chicago was founded in 1890 (approximately 136 years ago).
Where can I find Columbia College Chicago?
The institution is located in Chicago, United States.
Is Columbia College Chicago public or private?
Columbia College Chicago is a private institution.
How many students does Columbia College Chicago have?
The institution has a student body of 5,368.
How many faculties does Columbia College Chicago have?
Columbia College Chicago has 3 academic units.
Is Columbia College Chicago officially recognised?
Columbia College Chicago is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
How do I find Columbia College Chicago online?
The institution's website is www.colum.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
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Members of Council of Independent Colleges (CIC)
These universities are also members of Council of Independent Colleges (CIC).
Faculties at nearby universities
Universities located near Columbia College Chicago are listed below.
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Studying in United States: guides and resources
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