Columbia College Chicago: Courses, Fees, and Rankings 2026

Not sure where to kick off your creative hustle in one of the coolest, artsiest cities around? Yes, Columbia College Chicago might just be your golden ticket. Whether you’re itching to direct the next cult indie film, drop beats in a pro studio, or make jaw-dropping graphic art, this place throws you right into Chicago’s buzzing creative scene—no joke, it’s all happening here. If you’re the type who’d rather get your hands dirty than sit through miles of theory, and you’re chasing a shot at making art your 9-to-5, stick around. 

About Columbia College Chicago

Columbia College Chicago is a private, non-profit liberal arts college dedicated to arts, communication, and media. Established in 1890, the college is located in downtown Chicago and is known for turning creative students into professionals ready to make an impact. The Columbia College Chicago address is 600 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, United States.

Quick Stats:

• Total Students: ~6,500 undergraduate students
• Student–Faculty Ratio: 13:1
• Campus Location: 600 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
• Acceptance Rate: ~88% (2024)
• Founded: 1890
• Type: Private, non-profit
• Popular Majors: Film, Media, Music, Arts, Communications

Programs and Degrees at Columbia College Chicago

Columbia’s got over 60 programs. The cool part? It’s not just endless lectures and note-taking. Nope, you dive right in—making creatives, messing up, figuring it out—pretty much from day one. Wanna shoot movies, build video games, write the next big screenplay? You’ll be doing, not just daydreaming about it. Columbia College Chicago programs let you create, not just study, right from day one.

Popular Courses at Columbia:

• Film & Television (BA, BFA)
• Music Business & Audio Arts (BMus)
• Fashion Studies (BA)
• Game Design (BA)
• Graphic Design (BFA)
• Acting (BFA)
• Creative Writing (BA)
• Photography (BA)
• Dance (BFA)
• Comedy Writing & Performance (BA) — one of the few in the U.S.

Columbia College Chicago Admissions 2025: How to Apply?

Columbia offers rolling admissions, meaning students can apply anytime, but early applications are encouraged. The college is test-optional, so SAT/ACT scores are not required for most applicants.

Steps to Apply:

1. Apply via Common App or Columbia's portal
2. Submit your academic transcript
3. Upload a portfolio (if required for your program)
4. Optional: Essay or recommendation letters

Application Fee: $25 (waivers available)

Columbia College Chicago GPA & Admission Requirements

There’s no strict GPA cutoff, but most admitted students have a GPA of 3.0–3.4. Some majors, such as Film or Fine Arts, may require additional creative materials like portfolios or auditions. Overall, Columbia College Chicago has an acceptance rate of 88%, reflecting its relatively accessible admissions process.

Columbia College Chicago Admission Requirements Snapshot:

Columbia College Chicago Tuition & Fees

Here’s a breakdown of estimated annual costs for the 2025–26 academic year. Columbia charges the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students.

Annual Cost Overview:

Note: Tuition may vary by program or credit load.

Columbia College Chicago Scholarships and Financial Aid 2025

Around 93% of students at Columbia receive some form of financial aid. Scholarships are awarded based on merit, portfolio strength, or financial need.

Available Scholarships:

• Merit-Based Awards (up to $17,000/year)
• Talent/Portfolio Scholarships for artistic ability
• International Student Scholarships
• Federal Aid (FAFSA required)
  
• Work-Study Programs are available for eligible students
  

Columbia College Chicago Student Reviews

People are always talking about Columbia’s spot in the city. Honestly, career opportunities are everywhere—like, you can’t walk ten steps without bumping into someone who’s got some crazy industry gig. The professors? Not just academics, these folks know what they’re doing out in the real world. 

A few reviews of students from Columbia College:

• “Professors have real-world industry connections.”
  
  
• “The city becomes your campus.”
  
  
• “A perfect place for creatives who want to start working early.”

Ratings:

Career Opportunities and Placements at Columbia College Chicago

Columbia College is located in one of the best neighbourhoods in Chicago. Located in the heart of Chicago, you will be neighbours with all the big-name studios, agencies, and places that hand out those internships everyone’s fighting for.

What do they offer for your career? Here’s the rundown:

• Someone will look over your resume or portfolio and give you honest feedback (not just “looks good!”).
• Career fairs where you can awkwardly hand your resume to someone from Netflix and hope you don’t spill coffee on their shoes.
• Real, one-on-one coaching sessions—so you’re not just winging it and hoping for the best.
• They’ve got stronginternship connections, too. You want in? They’ll help you out.
• Oh, and there’s this thing called ColumbiaWorks—a job portal with gigs you want.

Where do people end up working? Not at some random juice bar, that’s for sure. We’re talking:

• Netflix (yes, *that* Netflix)
• Warner Bros.
• Leo Burnett (ad people, you know)
• WGN Chicago
• Spotify (try not to fangirl too hard)

Honestly, if you’re the ambitious type, being at Columbia is like getting dropped right into the action.

Columbia College Chicago Rankings & Reputation 2025

While Columbia isn’t ranked in traditional national university lists, it’s highly respected in creative industries.

Industry Recognition:

• Top 25 U.S. film schools (The Hollywood Reporter)
• Top 10 media colleges in the U.S. (College Magazine)
• Leading college for Music, Film, and Fine Arts education in the Midwest

Notable Alumni from Columbia College Chicago

Columbia, which is among the best universities in Chicago, has produced several award-winning artists, directors, writers, and designers.

Campus Life at Columbia College Chicago

Columbia might not have one of those old-school, walled-off campuses, but honestly? That South Loop spot drops you right in the thick of Chicago’s wild, creative energy. You’re living in the arts district—kind of hard to top that.

Here’s what’s popping on campus:

• The Student Centre has it all. Grab some food, hit the gym, sprawl out in the lounge—whatever, it’s got you.
• Music and film studios? Not your average basement setup. We’re talking pro-level gear, the real deal.
• Whatever you’re into, there’s a student club for that—and if not, you can start one.
• Every week, something is happening: performances, artshows, and open mics. You’ll never be bored here.
• Oh, and they’re serious about security—ID checks, so you can feel safe always.

Off-campus Student Housing near Columbia College Chicago

While on-campus housing options are available, many students opt for off-campus student apartments Chicago. These options provide flexibility, comfort, and modern amenities. They are also located close to the university, making travel to classes quick and hassle-free. With amber, you can book apartments at the best price with utmost ease. A few of the best apartments in Chicago, Illinois, near Columbia College are mentioned below:

1. 5252 Apartments, Chicago - Modern student apartments near the University of Chicago with sleek interiors and convenient amenities.

2. Regents Park, Chicago - Spacious lakefront apartments in Hyde Park with easy access to campus and downtown.

3. The Blackwood, Chicago - Comfortable student housing near campus with practical layouts and essential amenities.

4. Aspire Residences, Chicago - High-rise apartments offering a convenient mix of privacy, comfort, and shared spaces.

5. Post, Chicago - Modern units designed for student life, with study areas and quick access to public transit.

Columbia College Chicago vs Other Top Creative Colleges

Verdict: Columbia is a solid option for students wanting professional creative training in a diverse, urban setting with lower tuition than most private art schools.

Wilbur Wright College and Columbia College Chicago both offer unique opportunities for students in Chicago, whether you’re seeking a career-focused community college experience or an immersive creative arts education. From flexible programs, strong transfer pathways, and career support to student life, campus resources, and affordable tuition, these institutions are designed to help students succeed academically and professionally. With accessible admissions, hands-on learning, and dedicated resources like ColumbiaWorks for career preparation, students can find the right programs, support, and community to pursue their passions and achieve their goals.

‍

#Academic

Follow us on