Columbia College Chicago Overview

Columbia College Chicago is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Chicago, IL. It has an enrollment of 6,458 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 95.64%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $24,611. Tuition is $27,786.00 without financial aid.

Columbia College Chicago is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Columbia College Chicago, 62.08% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Columbia College Chicago has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to 1.

Columbia College Chicago Website

Columbia College Chicago Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 95.64%.

SAT or ACT scores are recommended.

• The average SAT score was unreported for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was unreported for the incoming class to 2023.

Columbia College Chicago Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $24,611.

The average tuition is:

• $19,039, when family income is less than $30,000

• $19,993, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $24,374, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $28,985, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $30,955, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 83.09% of students received a federal student loan and 41.32% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $27,786.00 without financial aid.

Columbia College Chicago Net Price Calculator

Columbia College Chicago Majors/Salaries

Columbia College Chicago has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Columbia College Chicago here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,527
• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,635
• Journalism. (Master’s Degree) – $41,025
• Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,222
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,133
• Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,113
• Graphic Communications. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• American Sign Language. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,330
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,485
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $41,789
• Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,204
• Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. (Master’s Degree) – $25,967
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,351
• Dance. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,964
• Design and Applied Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,737
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,995
• Film/Video and Photographic Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,649
• Film/Video and Photographic Arts. (Master’s Degree) – $33,993
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,849
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $19,944
• Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,507
• Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management. (Master’s Degree) – $38,289
• Movement and Mind-Body Therapies and Education. (Master’s Degree) – $41,565
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,124
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,355

Columbia College Chicago Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Columbia College Chicago

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.12%
• Asian: 3.73%
• Black: 14.96%
• Hispanic: 24.50%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.08%
• Non-resident alien: 3.19%
• Two or more races: 5.02%
• Unknown: 1.16%
• White: 47.24%

At Columbia College Chicago, 6.75% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Columbia College Chicago Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Columbia College Chicago?

Columbia College Chicago is known for having a strong sense of community and school spirit. The college offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including student organizations, sports teams, and community service projects. Additionally, the college hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as homecoming week, talent shows, and concerts, that bring together the student body and foster a sense of school pride and spirit.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Columbia College Chicago?

Columbia College Chicago offers a range of extracurricular activities for its students. Some of the most popular extracurriculars at Columbia College Chicago are: 1. Student Organizations: Columbia College Chicago has over 100 student-led organizations that cater to a wide range of interests such as activism, cultural, academic, and social. 2. Columbia College Chicago Radio: This is an entirely student-run radio station that broadcasts over the internet. The radio station provides an excellent platform for students to gain experience in radio production and broadcasting. 3. Film and Production Clubs: Columbia College Chicago has multiple clubs that cater to students interested in film and production. These clubs provide opportunities for students to network, learn from industry professionals and create films. 4. Theater and Improvisation: Columbia College Chicago is home to multiple theater and improvisation troupes. Students interested in theater and performing arts have the opportunity to perform in plays, improv shows, and open mic nights. 5. Sports and Fitness: Columbia College Chicago offers multiple intramural sports leagues, yoga classes, and other fitness activities. These activities provide students with a break from coursework and keep them healthy and active.

How are the food choices at Columbia College Chicago?

Columbia College Chicago has a variety of food options on campus. The college operates several dining facilities that offer different types of cuisine, including American, Mediterranean, Asian, and Italian. They also have vegetarian and vegan options available. In addition, there are various food trucks and restaurants in the surrounding area that students can take advantage of. Overall, students at Columbia College Chicago have a good range of food choices available on campus and nearby.

Is there Greek life at Columbia College Chicago?

Yes, Columbia College Chicago does have Greek life. The College has several recognized Greek organizations on its campus, including fraternities and sororities. These organizations are sanctioned by the College and provide opportunities for students to get involved in leadership, community service, and social events. Some of the recognized fraternities and sororities at Columbia College Chicago include Alpha Kappa Psi, Delta Kappa Alpha, Lambda Pi Chi, and Sigma Tau Delta, among others.

What is Columbia College Chicago known for?

Columbia College Chicago is known for its strong arts and media programs. It offers majors in areas such as film, television, journalism, advertising, audio arts, graphic design, theatre, dance, and many more. The college has a reputation for producing successful graduates in these industries and providing state-of-the-art facilities for students to develop their skills. Additionally, Columbia College Chicago has been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion in its educational programs and student body.

What are the most popular school clubs at Columbia College Chicago?

Columbia College Chicago has a variety of student clubs and organizations that cater to a diverse range of interests. Some of the most popular clubs at Columbia College Chicago include: 1. The Film Society: This club is for students who are interested in film production, screenwriting, or film theory. 2. The Anime Club: This club is for students who are fans of Japanese animation and enjoy watching and discussing the latest anime shows. 3. The Creative Writing Club: This club is for students who love writing and want to improve their skills by participating in creative writing workshops, competitions, and readings. 4. The LGBTQ+ Alliance: This club is for students who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community or are allies and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. 5. The Columbia Chronicle: This is the college’s student-run newspaper, and it is an excellent opportunity for students who are interested in journalism to gain experience in reporting, writing, editing, and publishing. 6. The Dance Club: This club is for students who love to dance and want to learn different styles and techniques from their peers or professional instructors. These are just a few examples of the many clubs and organizations available at Columbia College Chicago.

Is the campus at Columbia College Chicago safe?

Columbia College Chicago has its own campus safety department, which provides 24/7 security services, patrols, and emergency assistance. The department also offers escort services and safety education programs. However, as with any urban campus, it is important to exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas. Overall, Columbia College Chicago is generally considered a safe campus.