Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 44.1%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 45.7%
- Retention Rate
- 67.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $45,378
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $23,879
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 20:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 34.3%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $253/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $68,079 | $45,860 |
| International Business. | Bachelor | $57,318 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $54,382 | $25,247 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $53,894 | $25,718 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Bachelor | $49,937 | $26,033 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Master | $46,924 | $52,896 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $44,970 | $18,750 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $44,817 | $31,000 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $42,682 | $20,812 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $42,235 | $23,187 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $41,651 | $29,500 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $40,914 | $21,494 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Bachelor | $40,467 | $31,600 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $39,286 | $17,447 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $39,153 | $22,000 |
Outcomes Overview
Columbia College graduates carry $23,879 in median debt, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 against their $45,378 median salary ten years out. Monthly loan payments of $253 consume about 6.7% of gross income, below the recommended 10% threshold. The college's career-focused approach shows in its strong 91.6% employment rate. Many graduates enter healthcare, business, and education fields where Columbia's practical programs align with employer needs. The 34.26% loan repayment rate suggests some graduates struggle with payments despite finding work. While earnings lag behind four-year university averages, the college delivers on its promise of career preparation for working adults. This represents an average return on investment.