Private Missouri college founded 1851, pioneering military education and online learning with 6,000+ students.
Columbia College offers 95+ associate, bachelor, master, and certificate programs across 14 academic divisions including business, computer science, nursing, criminal justice, education, and visual arts. The Day Campus serves traditional students with selective admissions (57% admit rate in 2023, average HS GPA 3.6), while the Evening Campus and online programs serve adult learners and nontraditional students. Graduate programs include Master of Arts in Teaching, MBA, and Master of Science in Criminal Justice, available through evening classes and select extended campuses.
The main campus in Columbia features two distinct learning environments: the Day Campus for traditional undergraduates and the Evening Campus for adult learners. As of fall 2023, the Day Campus enrolled 860 undergraduates with an average age of 21, while the Evening Campus served 724 students. The college operates 15+ locations nationwide and offers 100% online options. Student services include the Center for Advising, Retention, and Student Success, Career Services Center, and Veteran Services Center. Athletics compete in 18 NAIA varsity sports under the Cougars mascot.
The Day Campus maintains selective admissions with a 57% acceptance rate for first-time applicants (2023). Freshmen require a minimum 2.5–3.0 high school GPA and ACT 21 or SAT 1060, or top 50% class ranking. Transfer students face a 41% acceptance rate (2023) and must have completed coursework with a C grade or higher. The Evening Campus, online campus, and satellite campuses operate under open admissions policies, requiring only high school completion or equivalency. Applicants denied Day Campus admission may reapply after completing six credits with a C or higher.
The Day Campus six-year graduation rate for full-time first-time students is 62%. According to College Scorecard, median income for 2010–2011 cohort graduates was $45,378 in 2020–2021, with 66% earning more than high school graduates. PayScale reports early career pay of $48,000 and mid-career pay of $74,600. The college is ranked #4 Military Spouse Friendly college nationally and holds Purple Heart College status. Student support includes one-on-one coaching, financial aid guidance, and career preparation services.