Columbia University School of General Studies
New York, New York
About Columbia University School of General Studies
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1754, Columbia University School of General Studies is a 4-year college serving students in New York, New York. With a tradition of academic excellence, Columbia University School of General Studies prepares graduates for success in Social Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, and more.
A Diverse Community in New York
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 6:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Columbia University School of General Studies is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $6,342, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-blind policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Columbia University School of General Studies emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Columbia University School of General Studies students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 94% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 56% |
| First-year retention rate | 97% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $98,435 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $102,491 |
| Median debt at graduation | $21,500 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Columbia University School of General Studies
| Total enrollment | 35,173 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 9,164 |
| Graduate students | 26,009 |
| International students | 8% |
| First-generation students | 25% |
What you can study at Columbia University School of General Studies
79 programs, most of them in these fields:
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (14)
African Studies, African-American/Black Studies, American/United States Studies/Civilization, and more
Foreign Languages (12)
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General, Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other, East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (9)
Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Dance, General, Design and Applied Arts, Other, and more
Social Sciences (8)
Anthropology, General, Archeology, Economics, General, and more
Biological and Biomedical Sciences (7)
Biochemistry, Biology/Biological Sciences, General, Biophysics, and more
Physical Sciences (7)
Astronomy, Astrophysics, Chemical Physics, and more
English Language and Literature (5)
Comparative Literature, Creative Writing, English Language and Literature, General, and more
Mathematics and Statistics (4)
Applied Mathematics, General, Mathematics and Statistics, Other, Mathematics, General, and more
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