Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia University, an esteemed private Ivy League research institution, stands as New York's oldest and the nation's fifth-oldest higher education institution. Established in 1754 as King's College by royal charter, it has a rich history deeply intertwined with the founding of the United States, transitioning from a colonial college to a modern research powerhouse located in the vibrant heart of New York City.

Known for its groundbreaking research and academic rigor, Columbia is a founding member of the Association of American Universities and was the first school in the United States to grant the MD degree. Its faculty and alumni have made pivotal contributions to science, including the first nuclear fission reaction in the Americas, the development of the laser, and significant research for the Manhattan Project. The university annually administers the prestigious Pulitzer Prize, further underscoring its impact on intellectual and cultural life.

Columbia's academic landscape is diverse, comprising twenty schools, including three undergraduate and sixteen graduate schools, fostering a dynamic environment for learning and discovery. Students benefit from a comprehensive core curriculum and access to extensive research opportunities through entities like the Lamont–Doherty Earth Observatory and the Goddard Institute for Space Studies. With a significant endowment and a global network of centers, Columbia continues to attract a diverse and accomplished student body, preparing them to become leaders and innovators in a complex world.