Columbia University in the City of New York logo

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

8,899
Total Students
$69K
Tuition (In-State)
$69K
Tuition (Out-State)
$20K
Avg Net Price
4%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Graduation Rate
6-year
97%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Columbia University in the City of New York

A historic Ivy League powerhouse driving discovery in the heart of New York City.

Nestled in the vibrant metropolis of New York City, Columbia University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance. As a private Ivy League research university, it offers an unparalleled educational experience, blending a rich, centuries-old legacy with cutting-edge innovation. Students at Columbia become part of an institution renowned for pioneering research, a rigorous core curriculum, and a dynamic intellectual environment that draws scholars and leaders from across the globe.

Founded in 1754 as King's College by royal charter, Columbia holds the distinction of being the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States. Its history is interwoven with that of the nation itself, with figures like Alexander Hamilton and John Jay playing pivotal roles in its early development. Over the centuries, Columbia has evolved into a comprehensive modern university, characterized by its twenty schools, including three undergraduate and sixteen graduate schools, each offering distinct pathways to knowledge and professional growth.

Columbia is celebrated for its groundbreaking contributions across various fields, from science and medicine to public policy and the arts. It's the birthplace of numerous scientific breakthroughs, including the first nuclear fission reaction in the Americas and significant research for the Manhattan Project. Beyond its scientific prowess, Columbia annually administers the prestigious Pulitzer Prize, underscoring its deep commitment to journalism and creative expression. This environment fosters a unique student experience, offering access to world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and the limitless opportunities of New York City, preparing graduates to lead and innovate in an ever-changing world.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1754, it is the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States.
  • A founding member of the Association of American Universities and the first school in the United States to grant the MD degree.
  • Known for administering and annually awarding the prestigious Pulitzer Prize.
  • Its alumni, faculty, and staff include 103 Nobel laureates, 4 U.S. presidents, and 10 justices of the United States Supreme Court.
  • Pioneered critical scientific breakthroughs, including brain–computer interface, the laser, nuclear magnetic resonance, and the first nuclear fission reaction in the Americas.
  • Boasts an endowment of $14.8 billion as of 2024, supporting its extensive research and academic initiatives.
  • Operates on a 299-acre campus in New York City, serving a student body of 36,649.

Timeline

1754
Officially founded as King's College by royal charter under George II of Great Britain.
1784
Renamed Columbia College following the American Revolution.
1813
Medical school incorporated with The College of Physicians and Surgeons.
1896
Moved to its current Morningside Heights campus and renamed Columbia University.
1940
Faculty members play a pivotal role in the Manhattan Project, creating the first nuclear fission reactor in the Americas.
1968
Student activism culminates in protests, leading to the resignation of the president and the establishment of the University Senate.
1983
Columbia College admits women for the first time.
2020
The new Columbia Climate School is launched as a key strategic initiative.

Schools & Colleges

7 notable schools within Columbia University in the City of New York

🏫

Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons

Formed in 1813 by incorporating the college's medical school, it was the first school in the United States to grant the MD degree.

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Teachers College

Founded by Nicholas Murray Butler, it is affiliated as the university's Graduate School of Education, preparing educators.

🏫

School of General Studies

Reorganized in 1995 as a full-fledged liberal arts college for non-traditional students (those with an academic break or pursuing dual-degrees).

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School of Professional Studies

Established in 1995 (formerly University Extension), it now offers degree programs in diverse professional and inter-disciplinary fields.

🏛️

School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)

Founded in 1946 in the aftermath of World War II, focusing on international relations by drawing on political science, economics, and history.

🎭

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Formed in 1979 by merging the university's decentralized faculties specializing in Political Science, Philosophy, and Pure Science.

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Columbia Climate School

A key strategic initiative launched in 2020, focusing on global climate challenges and research.

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