Columbia University

213 Low Library, 535 W. 116th St. · New York, NY 10027

University Type

Private

New York,

United States

Year Established:

1754

Columbia University (officially as Columbia University in the City of New York) is a private Ivy League research university in New York City. Established in 1754 as King's College on the grounds of Trinity Church in Manhattan, Columbia is the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. It is one of nine colonial colleges founded before the Declaration of Independence, seven of which belong to the Ivy League. Columbia is ranked among the top universities in the world by major education publications.

Rankings

#23

QS

#7

USNews

Columbia University Program Rankings

  • MBA (Full Time) (MBA) - Rank #2 (FT)

  • Finance (PhD) - Rank #4 (US News)

  • Financial Economics (Masters) - Rank #4 (US News)

  • Accounting (PhD) - Rank #7 (US News)

  • Marketing (PhD) - Rank #7 (US News)

  • Marketing Science (Masters) - Rank #7 (US News)

  • Mathematics (PhD) - Rank #7 (US News)

  • Mathematics of Finance (Specialization) (Masters) - Rank #7 (US News)

  • Psychology (UG) - Rank #7 (US News)

  • Biochemistry (UG) - Rank #8 (US News)

  • Biology (UG) - Rank #8 (US News)

  • Economics (Masters) - Rank #9 (US News)

  • Economics (PhD) - Rank #9 (US News)

  • Environment & Sustainability (UG) - Rank #9 (US News)

  • Environmental Biology (UG) - Rank #9 (US News)

  • Environmental Science (UG) - Rank #9 (US News)

  • Chemistry (UG) - Rank #10 (US News)

  • Management (PhD) - Rank #10 (US News)

  • Computer Science (UG) - Rank #11 (US News)

  • Economic & Social History (UG) - Rank #11 (US News)

  • Economics (Economics Track) (UG) - Rank #11 (US News)

  • Economics (Political Economy) (UG) - Rank #11 (US News)

  • Economics (Statistics) (UG) - Rank #11 (US News)

  • Mathematics & Economics (UG) - Rank #11 (US News)

  • Accounting & Fundamental Analysis (Masters) - Rank #19 (QS)

  • Chemica (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Statistics (Masters) - Rank #27 (US News)

  • Statistics (PhD) - Rank #27 (US News)

  • Biotechnology (Masters) - Rank #81 (US News)

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Columbia University Highlights

Columbia University Campus Tour

week in my life as a freshman at columbia university | exploring nyc, living alone

Student Life | Columbia University

A Day in my Life at Columbia University

FAQs

What are the most popular graduate programs offered at Columbia University?

Columbia University is renowned for its diverse and prestigious programs. Some of the most popular graduate programs include Business Administration (MBA), Law, Computer Science, International and Public Affairs, and Journalism. These programs are highly regarded globally, attracting students interested in leading and innovating in their respective fields.

What is the Annual Cost of attendance at Columbia University?

For the 2023 academic year, the total cost of attendance at Columbia University, including tuition and living expenses, is approximately $81,000 USD. This includes around $61,000 for tuition and $20,000 for living expenses. In Indian Rupees, this equates to roughly ₹66,62,000, using an exchange rate of 1 USD = 82.24 INR (rounded to the nearest hundreds).

What Financial aid and scholarship options are available at Columbia University?

Columbia University offers a range of financial aid options including need-based grants, scholarships, and student employment opportunities. Prospective students can apply for financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. The university also offers specific scholarships for academic excellence and leadership qualities. Details and deadlines are available on the university’s financial aid website.

What is the reputation and ranking of Columbia University?

Columbia University consistently ranks among the top universities globally. According to U.S. News & World Report, Columbia's Business School is ranked 8th in the nation, its Law School is ranked 4th, and its Medical School is highly regarded for research. The university's Journalism School is also considered one of the best in the country, reflecting Columbia's strong reputation across various disciplines.

What is the campus culture like at Columbia University?

Columbia University boasts a vibrant campus culture marked by a diverse blend of activities and communities. The university hosts numerous cultural fests such as the Columbia Festival of Lights and the Varsity Show, a student-written musical. There are over 500 student organizations including arts clubs, sports teams, and academic societies, facilitating a dynamic social environment and broadening student engagement outside the classroom.

What are the housing options at Columbia University?

Columbia University provides a variety of housing options, including residence halls and apartment-style living specifically designed for graduate students. Popular nearby areas for off-campus housing include Morningside Heights, Harlem, and the Upper West Side, which offer a range of rental options catering to different budgets and lifestyles. These areas are well-connected by public transport, offering easy access to campus and other New York City attractions.

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Columbia University Fun Facts

  • Alma Mater Statue Tradition

    Columbia University students believe rubbing the toes of the Alma Mater statue brings good luck, especially during finals week.

  • King's Crown Shakespeare Troupe

    The King's Crown Shakespeare Troupe, a completely student-run group at Columbia, stages unique, modern interpretations of Shakespeare's plays, delighting the campus annually.

  • Pulitzer Prizes Origins

    The prestigious Pulitzer Prizes in journalism and the arts, awarded annually, were established at Columbia University in 1917 by publisher Joseph Pulitzer.

  • The Varsity Show

    One of Columbia's oldest traditions, The Varsity Show, is an annual musical written and performed by students, satirizing campus life since 1894.