In Columbia, Missouri the world seems a bit smaller. That’s because in Columbia, the people who make up this great city treat each other with respect and dignity, making Columbia renowned for its sense of belonging

The city of Columbia, Missouri is geographically located in the center of the United States. Columbia is conveniently located between Missouri's two major cities, St. Louis and Kansas City. Both cities have international airports and shuttle services. Only a two-hour drive from either city, Columbia is an easy destination for international students.

The city offers a pleasing blend of sophistication and small-city charm in a culturally diverse community. With a population of 100,000, including 26,000 college students at three separate campuses, Columbia offers big city amenities while preserving small city comforts. The presence of two small private colleges and one large university has earned Columbia the nickname of "Collegetown, U.S.A."

National magazines consistently rank Columbia as a top city in which to live for safety, high quality health care, educational facilities, cultural opportunities and cost of living. Shops, restaurants, galleries, comedy clubs, concert halls, dance clubs, theatres and cafes are plentiful in the lively downtown area, many of them within walking distance of Columbia College. A large shopping mall is only a short city bus ride away and is a popular destination for students.