How much is tuition at Columbia College Chicago?

Tuition at Columbia College Chicago is $32,520 per year.

What is the average salary for graduates of Columbia College Chicago?

Graduates of Columbia College Chicago earn a median salary of $42,195 per year.

Where is Columbia College Chicago located?

Columbia College Chicago is located in Chicago, Illinois, United States.

Private nonprofit Institution

Columbia College Chicago 2026: $ 32,520 Tuition, Open Admission & Verified ROI Outcomes

Chicago, Illinois

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Annual Tuition $32,520

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 91.2%

Open Admission

Enrollment 6,294

Active Students

Avg. Salary $42,195

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Chicago, Illinois

Institution type Private nonprofit

Accreditation Higher Learning Commission

Founded 1/1/1967

Academic Mission & Environment

"Columbia College Chicago stands as a pillar of higher education in Chicago, providing a robust academic foundation for 6,294 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

Academic Excellence & Popular Programs

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Columbia College Chicago. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Visual & Performing Arts

59.4%

Enrollment Share

Communications Tech

18.2%

Enrollment Share

Communications

8.9%

Enrollment Share

English

3.9%

Enrollment Share

Business & Marketing

3.8%

Enrollment Share

Physical Sciences

2.3%

Enrollment Share

Best Visual & Performing Arts College

The Visual & Performing Arts program at Columbia College Chicago provides a comprehensive education designed for immediate professional impact. It remains a top choice for students seeking excellence in this competitive field.

Best Communications Tech College

The Communications Tech program at Columbia College Chicago provides a comprehensive education designed for immediate professional impact. It remains a top choice for students seeking excellence in this competitive field.

Best Communications College

The Communications program at Columbia College Chicago provides a comprehensive education designed for immediate professional impact. It remains a top choice for students seeking excellence in this competitive field.

Admissions & Selectivity

Open Admission

Acceptance Rate 91.2%

Avg. SAT Score N/A

Out of 1600

ACT Midpoint N/A

Out of 36

SAT Section Breakdown

Evidence-Based Reading & Writing N/A

Math N/A

ACT Section Breakdown

English N/A

Math N/A

Costs & Financial Aid

In-State Tuition $32,520

Out-of-State Tuition $32,520

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 43.2%

Median Student Debt $25,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $32,520, graduates see a median starting salary of $42,195, making it one of the most affordable pathways in Illinois.

Graduate Outcomes & ROI

Avg. Early Career Salary $42,195

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 48.5%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $26,788

Median Salary (6yr) $32,596

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

Student Body & Campus Life

6,294 Students

Gender Comparison

38.5% Men

61.5% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

64%

Retention First-year

95.1%

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

White

40.7%

Hispanic

28.8%

Black

17.7%

Two or More Races

4.5%

International

3.7%

Asian

3.5%

Unknown / Unreported

0.9%

American Indian / Alaska Native

0.2%

Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander

0.1%

International Student Profile

Columbia College Chicago supports a diverse global community with students from over 40 countries.

3.7% Global Enrollment

Campus Demographics

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Avg. Age at Entry 21

🎓

First-Generation 24.9%

💰

Receive Pell Grant 53.9%

🎖️

Veterans 0.3%

💍

Married Students 1.2%

📅

Students Age 25+ 6.2%

🔄

Retention (Part-time) 19.1%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$72,555
Average Family Income	$72,793
Median Family Income	$49,117

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

57.4%

42.6%

Women Men

Student-Faculty Ratio 15:1 students per faculty member

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Chicago Campus Environment

Located at 600 South Michigan Ave, Columbia College Chicago offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of Illinois. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

Get Directions Open in Google Maps

Common Questions about Columbia College Chicago

What is the acceptance rate at Columbia College Chicago?

Columbia College Chicago has an acceptance rate of 91.2%. This indicates a student-centered admission policy that provides accessible pathways for a diverse range of applicants. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot.

How much does it cost to attend Columbia College Chicago per year?

The estimated annual tuition is $32,520. However, the 'Net Price'—what students actually pay after grants and scholarships—is often much lower. For many families, financial aid packages can reduce the out-of-pocket cost significantly, making Columbia College Chicago a valuable investment in your future.

What are the most popular degrees offered at Columbia College Chicago?

Columbia College Chicago is widely recognized for its strong programs in various academic fields. These areas represent the college\'s commitment to professional preparation and academic rigor, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the modern workforce.

Does Columbia College Chicago offer career support and job placement services?

Yes, Columbia College Chicago provides comprehensive career development services, including resume workshops, interview coaching, and active job placement networks. The institution maintains strong ties with local industries in Chicago, facilitating internships and career opportunities for graduates.

What is the campus culture like at Columbia College Chicago in Chicago?

Located in Chicago, the campus offers a vibrant and inclusive environment. With a student body of 6,294, learners have access to numerous clubs, athletic programs, and cultural events. The college emphasizes a supportive community that fosters both personal growth and academic success.

What kind of ROI can I expect from a degree at Columbia College Chicago?

Graduates of Columbia College Chicago see a median early-career salary of $42,195. When compared to the affordable tuition rates, this represents a strong return on investment. The institution focuses on high-impact degrees that translate directly into professional stability and earnings growth.

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2026 Rankings: Illinois

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Columbia College Chicago with other leading institutions in Illinois across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

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