The School of General Studies of Columbia University is the finest liberal arts college in the United States created specifically for returning and nontraditional students seeking a rigorous, traditional, Ivy League undergraduate degree full or part time.
GS is also home to innovative dual and joint degree programs open to all students, including those applying directly from high school, in partnership with List College of the Jewish Theological Seminary, Sciences Po, Trinity College Dublin, Tel Aviv University, and City University of Hong Kong.
The Columbia University Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program is the oldest and largest program of its kind in the United States.
With an internationally-recognized faculty, Columbia's commitment to postbaccalaureate premedical and prehealth students is proven by a placement rate of up to 90 percent of our graduates in American medical schools.
Many Columbia GS students and alumni have strong ties to the fashion industry—before, during, or after their time at Columbia—as models, photographers, designers, makeup artists, magazine editors, public relations professionals, and more.
In honor of New York Fashion Week, we’re highlighting several such students and alumni who have pursued their education at GS and are making a meaningful impact, both within the fashion industry and beyond.
There are many resources available to you as a student to help you succeed in your academic career.
Undergraduate and Postbac Premed students are matched with a dedicated academic advisor and receive individually-tailored advising to support their academic and career goals.
Dedicated to supporting the diverse nontraditional student body at GS in achieving academic excellence.
Peer Advisors are available to discuss academics, campus resources, personal concerns, and the transition to the School of General Studies.
Wherever you are on the road to mastery, our tutors are here to help.
We encourage students to become involved in programs and activities that enhance their educational experience.
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (with a Columbia ID) to support GS students to study, socialize, and connect.
Contact Us | Visit
The best way to understand GS is to visit us. We recommend that prospective students register for an information session and student-led campus tour to get the most of their visit to Columbia's undergraduate college for nontraditional students.