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Columbia University in the City of New York: Columbia University - Low Memorial Library (48170370506)
Photo: Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

College · Catholic life on campus

Columbia University in the City of New York

  • LocationNew York, NY
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 35,279 students
Official website
Campus Ministry Honor Roll badge

Columbia University in the City of New York is not a Catholic college. This rating measures Catholic life on campus: campus ministry, priests, Mass and confession, student groups, and nearby parishes.

Columbia Catholic Ministry (CCM), the Catholic student community at Columbia, is based at the Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, a student center in the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame at 405 W. 114th Street, one block from campus; the Archdiocese of New York lists it as serving Columbia. Fr. John Wilson has been chaplain since summer 2025, with Fr. Peter Heasley as assistant chaplain. While Columbia is in session, Mass is celebrated weekdays at 12:10 PM and Sundays at 5 PM at Notre Dame Church, with weekday adoration and confession; four FOCUS missionaries, weekly Bible studies, semester retreats, OCIA, and two weekly dinners are offered.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 10

  • Monday–Friday12:10 PMChurch of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St. · While Columbia is in session.
  • Sunday5:00 PMChurch of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St. · CCM student Mass, while Columbia is in session; followed by Sunday supper.
  • Monday–Friday8:00 AMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame.
  • Saturday9:00 AMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · Parish Mass.
  • Saturday5:00 PMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · Parish vigil Mass.
  • Sunday9:00 AMChurch of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St. · Parish Mass.
Show 4 more mass times
  • Sunday10:30 AMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · Parish Mass in Spanish.
  • Sunday10:30 AMChurch of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St. · Parish Mass in French.
  • Sunday12:00 PMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · Parish Mass.
  • Sunday9:00 PMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · Parish Mass.

Confession 3

  • Monday–Friday11:05 AM–12:00 PMChurch of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St. · During adoration; also by appointment or drop-in at the Merton Institute.
  • Sunday4:15 PM–4:45 PMChurch of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St.
  • Saturday4:00 PM–4:45 PMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · Before the 5:00 PM vigil Mass.

Adoration 2

  • Monday–Friday11:00 AM–12:00 PMChurch of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St.
  • Saturday9:30 AM–10:30 AMCorpus Christi Church, 529 W. 121st St. · After the 9:00 AM parish Mass.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 8, 2026.

Sources for these times (1)
  1. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “While Columbia is in session, our sacramental home is the Grotto Church of Notre Dame (405 W 114th St. at the corner of Morningside Drive). Mass Sunday: 5:00 PM Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 12:10 PM”
    While Columbia is in session, CCM's Mass is Sunday at 5:00 PM and weekdays Monday-Friday at 12:10 PM at the Church of Notre Dame.
    “While Columbia is in session, our sacramental home is the Grotto Church of Notre Dame (405 W 114th St. at the corner of Morningside Drive). Mass Sunday: 5:00 PM Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 12:10 PM”
    While Columbia is in session, CCM's Mass is Sunday at 5:00 PM and weekdays Monday-Friday at 12:10 PM at the Church of Notre Dame.
    “Confessions are heard daily (the confessional is at the back of the church): Mon - Fri: 11:05 AM - 12:00 PM (during Adoration) Sunday: 4:15 - 4:45 PM Anytime by appointment or drop-in at the Merton Institute (405 W. 114th St.) Just email our chaplain at catholicpriest@columbia.edu.”
    Confession is Monday-Friday 11:05 AM-noon and Sunday 4:15-4:45 PM, or by appointment with the chaplain (catholicpriest@columbia.edu).
    “Confessions are heard daily (the confessional is at the back of the church): Mon - Fri: 11:05 AM - 12:00 PM (during Adoration) Sunday: 4:15 - 4:45 PM Anytime by appointment or drop-in at the Merton Institute (405 W. 114th St.) Just email our chaplain at catholicpriest@columbia.edu.”
    Confession is Monday-Friday 11:05 AM-noon and Sunday 4:15-4:45 PM, or by appointment with the chaplain (catholicpriest@columbia.edu).
    “We adore Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament every weekday (Mon - Fri) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM.”
    Eucharistic adoration is held every weekday 11 AM-noon.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of Columbia University in the City of New York, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches0.25 mi0.5 mi1 miCorpus Christi Catholic Church: 0.2 mi1Church of Notre Dame: 0.2 mi2Saint Joseph of the Holy Family Catholic Church: 0.5 mi3Church of the Ascension: 0.5 mi4Saint Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church (historical): 0.5 mi5Church of the Annunciation: 0.7 mi6Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life (Columbia Catholic Ministry): 0.3 miColumbia University in the City of New York (campus)N0.25 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Corpus Christi Catholic Church — 0.2 mi · 529 West 121st Street, Manhattan
  2. Church of Notre Dame — 0.2 mi · 405 West 114th Street, New York
  3. Saint Joseph of the Holy Family Catholic Church — 0.5 mi · 405 West 125th Street, New York
  4. Church of the Ascension — 0.5 mi
  5. Saint Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church (historical) — 0.5 mi
  6. Church of the Annunciation — 0.7 mi · 88 Convent Avenue, New York

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the parish or diocese.

Catholic life scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

ACatholic life on campus: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Catholic life on campus

97 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic campus ministry serving this campus (Catholic center, campus ministry, or chaplaincy)Yes (The Archdiocese of New York's University Apostolate directory lists the Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life as serving the Catholic community at Columbia University, with Rev. John Wilson as chaplain. Columbia Catholic Ministry describes itself as the Catholic student community at Columbia, made up of undergraduate and graduate students.)
    Sources (4)
    1. University Apostolate - Archdiocese of New Yorkarchny.org/university-apostolate · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY + Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life Serving the Catholic Community at Columbia University 405 W. 114th St. New York, NY 10025-1710”
      The Archdiocese of New York lists the Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, 405 W. 114th St., as serving the Catholic community at Columbia University.
    2. Home | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Columbia Catholic Ministry (CCM) is dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus as taught by the Roman Catholic Church on Columbia's campus. We are an active fellowship of Catholic university students seeking to grow closer to Christ in friendship with each other.”
      Columbia Catholic Ministry is a fellowship of Catholic students proclaiming the Gospel on Columbia's campus.
    3. NSOP | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/nsop · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Columbia Catholic Ministry (CCM) is the Catholic student community at Columbia University.”
      Columbia Catholic Ministry is the Catholic student community at Columbia University.
    4. About Us | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/about-us · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Columbia Catholic Ministry is the group of Columbia undergraduate and graduate students dedicated to proclaiming, in communion with the Roman Catholic Church, the Gospel on the Columbia campus”
      Columbia Catholic Ministry is made up of Columbia undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Dedicated Catholic center or chapel on or next to campusYes (The Thomas Merton Institute, opened to students in February 2023 in the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame, is CCM's student center and the base for most of its activities; it adjoins Notre Dame Church, CCM's sacramental home, which CCM describes as one block from campus. Distance is computed from the address.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Home | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “CCM hosts most of its activities at the new great home for Catholic students at Columbia, The Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, located behind Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th Street).”
      CCM holds most of its activities at the Thomas Merton Institute, behind Notre Dame Church at 405 W. 114th Street.
    2. About Us | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/about-us · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Institute is currently leasing the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame (114th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Morningside Drive), which is once again the sanctuary for Columbia Catholic Campus Ministry’s liturgical celebrations. After a $1 million renovation of the main floor of the rectory, the Merton Institute opened for students on February 11, 2023.”
      The Merton Institute occupies the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame, which is the sanctuary for CCM's liturgies; it opened to students on February 11, 2023.
      “The Merton Institute works alongside Columbia Catholic Ministry in its evangelizing mission to the University. Thus, in addition to its own formational activities, the Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy on campus and provides a home for CCM’s activities at the Institute’s student center.”
      The Merton Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy and houses CCM's activities in its student center.
    3. NSOP | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/nsop · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Student Masses are held at Notre Dame Church, just one block from campus at the corner of 114th St. and Morningside Ave.”
      CCM's student Masses are at Notre Dame Church, one block from campus.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Priest chaplain assigned to campus ministryFull-time priest chaplain (Fr. John Wilson has been chaplain of Columbia Catholic Ministry since summer 2025; the Merton Institute's chaplain is appointed by the Archbishop of New York. He also serves as parochial vicar of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame. Fr. Peter Heasley, the parish's pastor, is assistant chaplain.)
    Sources (3)
    1. People | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/people · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Father John Wilson has been the chaplain of Columbia Catholic Ministry since the summer of 2025.”
      Fr. John Wilson has been chaplain of Columbia Catholic Ministry since summer 2025.
    2. University Apostolate - Archdiocese of New Yorkarchny.org/university-apostolate · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “info@thomasmertoninstitute.org catholicpriest@columbia.edu Rev. John Wilson, Chaplain / community contact”
      The archdiocese lists Rev. John Wilson as chaplain and contact for Columbia, with emails info@thomasmertoninstitute.org and catholicpriest@columbia.edu.
    3. About Us | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/about-us · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Institute’s chaplain is appointed by the Archbishop of New York.”
      The Merton Institute's chaplain is appointed by the Archbishop of New York.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Weekday Mass at the campus ministryEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Monday through Friday at 12:10 PM at Notre Dame Church while Columbia is in session. The parish also has an 8:00 AM weekday Mass at Corpus Christi Church (listed in schedules).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “While Columbia is in session, our sacramental home is the Grotto Church of Notre Dame (405 W 114th St. at the corner of Morningside Drive). Mass Sunday: 5:00 PM Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 12:10 PM”
      While Columbia is in session, CCM's Mass is Sunday at 5:00 PM and weekdays Monday-Friday at 12:10 PM at the Church of Notre Dame.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Sunday Mass at the campus ministry or a campus chapelOne weekend Mass (CCM's own weekend Mass is the Sunday 5:00 PM student Mass at Notre Dame Church, with a student choir. The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame has six more weekend Masses (Saturday 5 PM vigil and Sunday 9 AM, 10:30 AM Spanish, 10:30 AM French, noon, and 9 PM) at Notre Dame and Corpus Christi churches; they are listed in schedules; not counted, because the parish does not run the ministry.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “While Columbia is in session, our sacramental home is the Grotto Church of Notre Dame (405 W 114th St. at the corner of Morningside Drive). Mass Sunday: 5:00 PM Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 12:10 PM”
      While Columbia is in session, CCM's Mass is Sunday at 5:00 PM and weekdays Monday-Friday at 12:10 PM at the Church of Notre Dame.
    2. Worship | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/worship · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “There is a student choir that sings at the 5:00 pm Sunday Masses, as well as a group of cantors who lead the singing.”
      A student choir and cantors sing at the Sunday 5:00 PM Mass.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Scheduled confession at the campus ministryWeekly or more often (Monday through Friday 11:05 AM-noon (during adoration) and Sunday 4:15-4:45 PM at Notre Dame Church, plus by appointment or drop-in at the Merton Institute.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Confessions are heard daily (the confessional is at the back of the church): Mon - Fri: 11:05 AM - 12:00 PM (during Adoration) Sunday: 4:15 - 4:45 PM Anytime by appointment or drop-in at the Merton Institute (405 W. 114th St.) Just email our chaplain at catholicpriest@columbia.edu.”
      Confession is Monday-Friday 11:05 AM-noon and Sunday 4:15-4:45 PM, or by appointment with the chaplain (catholicpriest@columbia.edu).
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student groups and missionary outreach (e.g., FOCUS, Saint Paul's Outreach, Knights of Columbus, Bible studies)Two or more (Columbia Catholic Ministry is the Catholic student community of undergraduate and graduate students, with student-led roles such as a retreat chair; four FOCUS missionaries serve with CCM and lead weekly Bible studies. Ford Hall, a Catholic residence, is for graduate students and is not counted.)
    Sources (5)
    1. FOCUS | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/focus · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Four FOCUS Missionaries have been present as part of the Columbia Catholic Ministry team since 2011”
      Four FOCUS missionaries serve as part of the Columbia Catholic Ministry team, as they have since 2011.
    2. Columbia University - FOCUSfocus.org/campus/columbia-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “George French Hadlaw Nelly Hadlaw Bloomer Anne Bloomer”
      FOCUS lists Columbia University as a campus it serves, with missionaries George French, Nelly Hadlaw, and Anne Bloomer.
    3. Events | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “FOCUS Missionaries and Columbia Catholic Ministry students host weekly Bible studies! (Bibles are provided.)”
      FOCUS missionaries and CCM students host weekly Bible studies.
    4. NSOP | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/nsop · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Columbia Catholic Ministry (CCM) is the Catholic student community at Columbia University.”
      Columbia Catholic Ministry is the Catholic student community at Columbia University.
    5. Formation | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/formation · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The retreat chair for Columbia Catholic Ministry organizes a retreat for students once a semester. Upcoming retreats can always be found in our Newsletter.”
      A CCM retreat chair organizes a student retreat each semester.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Formation programs (retreats, OCIA/RCIA, service, small groups)Two or more kinds (A retreat each semester, SEEK in January, weekly OCIA classes on Sundays, weekly Bible studies, mini-courses and weekly seminars, spiritual direction, and service opportunities.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Events | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Columbia Catholic Ministry hosts one retreat per semester.”
      CCM holds one retreat each semester.
      “FOCUS Missionaries and Columbia Catholic Ministry students host weekly Bible studies! (Bibles are provided.)”
      FOCUS missionaries and CCM students host weekly Bible studies.
      “We have many ongoing opportunities to get involved, and serve our community. Please refer to our newsletter, Instagram, or the Merton Institute bulletin board for updates on these opportunities.”
      CCM offers ongoing service opportunities announced through its newsletter, Instagram, and bulletin board.
    2. Formation | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/formation · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The retreat chair for Columbia Catholic Ministry organizes a retreat for students once a semester. Upcoming retreats can always be found in our Newsletter.”
      A CCM retreat chair organizes a student retreat each semester.
      “Throughout the school year, we host mini-courses to educate students on specific aspects of the faith.”
      The Merton Institute holds mini-courses on aspects of the faith during the school year.
      “Send us a quick email and we'll do our best to connect you with a spiritual director!”
      The Merton Institute helps students find a spiritual director.
    3. Become Catholic | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/become-catholic · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “For the 2026-2027 year, classes will run weekly on Sundays from 2:00 - 3:30 PM at the Merton Institute, starting September 20.”
      In 2026-27 the chaplain's classes for those becoming Catholic meet Sundays 2:00-3:30 PM at the Merton Institute, starting September 20.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic church within walking distance (computed from OpenStreetMap)Within 1 mile of campusComputed from OpenStreetMap church locations.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration30 or more times a week (31 weekly times documented: 18 Mass, 7 confession, 6 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Strengths

  • While Columbia is in session, Mass is celebrated every weekday at 12:10 PM and Sunday at 5:00 PM at Notre Dame Church, one block from campus, with adoration and confession every weekday.
    Sources (2)
    1. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “While Columbia is in session, our sacramental home is the Grotto Church of Notre Dame (405 W 114th St. at the corner of Morningside Drive). Mass Sunday: 5:00 PM Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 12:10 PM”
      While Columbia is in session, CCM's Mass is Sunday at 5:00 PM and weekdays Monday-Friday at 12:10 PM at the Church of Notre Dame.
      “Confessions are heard daily (the confessional is at the back of the church): Mon - Fri: 11:05 AM - 12:00 PM (during Adoration) Sunday: 4:15 - 4:45 PM Anytime by appointment or drop-in at the Merton Institute (405 W. 114th St.) Just email our chaplain at catholicpriest@columbia.edu.”
      Confession is Monday-Friday 11:05 AM-noon and Sunday 4:15-4:45 PM, or by appointment with the chaplain (catholicpriest@columbia.edu).
      “We adore Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament every weekday (Mon - Fri) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM.”
      Eucharistic adoration is held every weekday 11 AM-noon.
    2. NSOP | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/nsop · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Student Masses are held at Notre Dame Church, just one block from campus at the corner of 114th St. and Morningside Ave.”
      CCM's student Masses are at Notre Dame Church, one block from campus.
  • A chaplain appointed by the Archbishop of New York, Fr. John Wilson, serves the ministry, with the local pastor as assistant chaplain.
    Sources (2)
    1. People | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/people · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Father John Wilson has been the chaplain of Columbia Catholic Ministry since the summer of 2025.”
      Fr. John Wilson has been chaplain of Columbia Catholic Ministry since summer 2025.
      “Father Peter Heasley: Assistant Chaplain ph2686@columbia.edu Father Peter Heasley has been the pastor of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame, the parish on Morningside Heights, since the summer of 2022.”
      Fr. Peter Heasley, pastor of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame since 2022, is CCM's assistant chaplain.
    2. About Us | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/about-us · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Institute’s chaplain is appointed by the Archbishop of New York.”
      The Merton Institute's chaplain is appointed by the Archbishop of New York.
  • The Thomas Merton Institute, opened in 2023 beside Notre Dame Church, gives Catholic students a student center open six days a week, with Sunday suppers and Wednesday family dinners.
    Sources (3)
    1. About Us | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/about-us · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Institute is currently leasing the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame (114th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Morningside Drive), which is once again the sanctuary for Columbia Catholic Campus Ministry’s liturgical celebrations. After a $1 million renovation of the main floor of the rectory, the Merton Institute opened for students on February 11, 2023.”
      The Merton Institute occupies the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame, which is the sanctuary for CCM's liturgies; it opened to students on February 11, 2023.
      “The Merton Institute works alongside Columbia Catholic Ministry in its evangelizing mission to the University. Thus, in addition to its own formational activities, the Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy on campus and provides a home for CCM’s activities at the Institute’s student center.”
      The Merton Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy and houses CCM's activities in its student center.
    2. Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life at Columbiathomasmertoninstitute.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “info@thomasmertoninstitute.org VISIT US Monday - Friday 10 AM - 9 PM Sunday 12 PM - 9 PM”
      The Merton Institute's email is info@thomasmertoninstitute.org; it is open Monday-Friday 10 AM-9 PM and Sunday noon-9 PM.
    3. Events | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Join us on Sundays at 6:15 PM (after our student Mass ends) for an excellent home-cooked meal and even better company! These Sunday suppers are held at the Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, the building connected to the Church of Notre Dame to its west.”
      Sunday suppers follow the student Mass at 6:15 PM at the Merton Institute, which is connected to the Church of Notre Dame.
      “Join us on Wednesdays from 6:30 - 8:30 PM for a home-cooked family dinner, a talk from our chaplain, and time in prayer.”
      Wednesday family dinners from 6:30 to 8:30 PM include a talk from the chaplain and prayer.
  • Four FOCUS missionaries, weekly Bible studies, a retreat each semester, SEEK in January, and weekly OCIA classes are offered.
    Sources (4)
    1. FOCUS | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/focus · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Four FOCUS Missionaries have been present as part of the Columbia Catholic Ministry team since 2011”
      Four FOCUS missionaries serve as part of the Columbia Catholic Ministry team, as they have since 2011.
    2. Events | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “FOCUS Missionaries and Columbia Catholic Ministry students host weekly Bible studies! (Bibles are provided.)”
      FOCUS missionaries and CCM students host weekly Bible studies.
      “Columbia Catholic Ministry hosts one retreat per semester.”
      CCM holds one retreat each semester.
    3. Formation | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/formation · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Furthermore, many students attend the FOCUS conference, SEEK, each January.”
      Many students attend FOCUS's SEEK conference each January.
    4. Become Catholic | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/become-catholic · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “For the 2026-2027 year, classes will run weekly on Sundays from 2:00 - 3:30 PM at the Merton Institute, starting September 20.”
      In 2026-27 the chaplain's classes for those becoming Catholic meet Sundays 2:00-3:30 PM at the Merton Institute, starting September 20.

Concerns

  • The ministry's own weekend Mass is a single Sunday 5:00 PM student Mass; other weekend Masses are parish Masses at Notre Dame and Corpus Christi churches.
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “While Columbia is in session, our sacramental home is the Grotto Church of Notre Dame (405 W 114th St. at the corner of Morningside Drive). Mass Sunday: 5:00 PM Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 12:10 PM”
      While Columbia is in session, CCM's Mass is Sunday at 5:00 PM and weekdays Monday-Friday at 12:10 PM at the Church of Notre Dame.
      “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
      The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
  • The campus ministry's Mass, confession, and adoration schedule applies while Columbia is in session.
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “While Columbia is in session, our sacramental home is the Grotto Church of Notre Dame (405 W 114th St. at the corner of Morningside Drive). Mass Sunday: 5:00 PM Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 12:10 PM”
      While Columbia is in session, CCM's Mass is Sunday at 5:00 PM and weekdays Monday-Friday at 12:10 PM at the Church of Notre Dame.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

The Catholic center

Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life (Columbia Catholic Ministry)

  • Address: 405 W. 114th St., New York, NY 10025
  • Location: Next to campus
  • Distance from campus: 0.3 mi (straight line from the campus point in federal IPEDS data)
  • Facilities: student center, adjoining church (Church of Notre Dame), roof

View on map ↗

Source: archny.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, columbia-catholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, thomasmertoninstitute.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, thomasmertoninstitute.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, columbia-catholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, columbia-catholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, columbia-catholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

16 groups and regular activities · 3 on campus, 13 off campus

Faith formation 5

  • Become Catholic (OCIA) classesOff campus
    Sundays 2:00-3:30 PM (from September 20, 2026)
    Weekly classes led by the chaplain at the Merton Institute for those interested in becoming Catholic or completing the sacraments of initiation.
    columbia-catholic.org
  • Lunchtime Discussion SeminarOff campus
    Thursdays 1:00-2:30 PM, October 15-November 5, 2026
    Seminar at the Merton Institute on an introduction to Catholicism; lunch and books provided.
    thomasmertoninstitute.org
  • Mini-courses and lecturesOff campus
    Mini-courses on aspects of the faith and lectures and seminars by priests and invited speakers during the school year.
    thomasmertoninstitute.org
  • Spiritual directionOff campus
    The Merton Institute connects students with spiritual directors on request.
    thomasmertoninstitute.org
  • Bible studiesOn campus
    Weekly
    Weekly Bible studies hosted by FOCUS missionaries and CCM students. Bibles provided (meeting places not stated).
    columbia-catholic.org, columbia-catholic.org

Liturgy and prayer 2

  • Student choir and cantorsOff campus
    Sunday 5:00 PM Mass
    Student choir and cantors lead music at the Sunday student Mass.
    thomasmertoninstitute.org
  • Lourdes in a DayOff campus
    October 24, 2026, 9:30 AM-3:00 PM
    Day of prayer at the Merton Institute with confession, an anointing Mass, and Eucharistic adoration and procession.
    thomasmertoninstitute.org

Other 2

  • PilgrimagesOff campus
    Merton Institute pilgrimages to Catholic sites; students have traveled to the Holy Land during spring break in the past.
    thomasmertoninstitute.org
  • Ford HallOff campus
    Residence for Catholic graduate students at 614 W. 114th Street with shared dinners and a chapel where Mass is held a couple of times a month; not open to undergraduates as residents.
    thomasmertoninstitute.org, thomasmertoninstitute.org

Retreats 2

Service 1

  • Service opportunitiesOff campus
    Ongoing service opportunities organized by CCM's service chair and team, announced in the newsletter and on Instagram.
    columbia-catholic.org

Social life 2

  • Sunday SuppersOff campus
    Sundays 6:15 PM
    Home-cooked dinner after the 5:00 PM student Mass at the Merton Institute.
    columbia-catholic.org
  • Wednesday Family DinnersOff campus
    Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 PM
    Home-cooked dinner with a talk from the chaplain and time in prayer at the Merton Institute.
    columbia-catholic.org

Clubs and groups 2

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the parish. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Catholic campus ministry

Sources (9)
  1. Home | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Columbia Catholic Ministry (CCM) is dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus as taught by the Roman Catholic Church on Columbia's campus. We are an active fellowship of Catholic university students seeking to grow closer to Christ in friendship with each other.”
    Columbia Catholic Ministry is a fellowship of Catholic students proclaiming the Gospel on Columbia's campus.
    “CCM hosts most of its activities at the new great home for Catholic students at Columbia, The Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, located behind Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th Street).”
    CCM holds most of its activities at the Thomas Merton Institute, behind Notre Dame Church at 405 W. 114th Street.
  2. NSOP | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/nsop · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Columbia Catholic Ministry (CCM) is the Catholic student community at Columbia University.”
    Columbia Catholic Ministry is the Catholic student community at Columbia University.
    “Student Masses are held at Notre Dame Church, just one block from campus at the corner of 114th St. and Morningside Ave.”
    CCM's student Masses are at Notre Dame Church, one block from campus.
    “Following the 5:00 PM student Mass, join other Columbia Catholics for a special dinner on the roof of the Merton Institute!”
    The Merton Institute has a roof used for student gatherings.
  3. People | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/people · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Father John Wilson has been the chaplain of Columbia Catholic Ministry since the summer of 2025.”
    Fr. John Wilson has been chaplain of Columbia Catholic Ministry since summer 2025.
    “Father Peter Heasley: Assistant Chaplain ph2686@columbia.edu Father Peter Heasley has been the pastor of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame, the parish on Morningside Heights, since the summer of 2022.”
    Fr. Peter Heasley, pastor of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame since 2022, is CCM's assistant chaplain.
  4. University Apostolate - Archdiocese of New Yorkarchny.org/university-apostolate · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY + Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life Serving the Catholic Community at Columbia University 405 W. 114th St. New York, NY 10025-1710”
    The Archdiocese of New York lists the Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, 405 W. 114th St., as serving the Catholic community at Columbia University.
    “COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY + Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life Serving the Catholic Community at Columbia University 405 W. 114th St. New York, NY 10025-1710”
    The Archdiocese of New York lists the Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, 405 W. 114th St., as serving the Catholic community at Columbia University.
  5. About Us | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/about-us · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “The Institute is currently leasing the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame (114th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Morningside Drive), which is once again the sanctuary for Columbia Catholic Campus Ministry’s liturgical celebrations. After a $1 million renovation of the main floor of the rectory, the Merton Institute opened for students on February 11, 2023.”
    The Merton Institute occupies the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame, which is the sanctuary for CCM's liturgies; it opened to students on February 11, 2023.
    “The Merton Institute works alongside Columbia Catholic Ministry in its evangelizing mission to the University. Thus, in addition to its own formational activities, the Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy on campus and provides a home for CCM’s activities at the Institute’s student center.”
    The Merton Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy and houses CCM's activities in its student center.
    “The Institute is currently leasing the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame (114th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Morningside Drive), which is once again the sanctuary for Columbia Catholic Campus Ministry’s liturgical celebrations. After a $1 million renovation of the main floor of the rectory, the Merton Institute opened for students on February 11, 2023.”
    The Merton Institute occupies the former rectory of the Church of Notre Dame, which is the sanctuary for CCM's liturgies; it opened to students on February 11, 2023.
    “The Merton Institute works alongside Columbia Catholic Ministry in its evangelizing mission to the University. Thus, in addition to its own formational activities, the Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy on campus and provides a home for CCM’s activities at the Institute’s student center.”
    The Merton Institute supports the Catholic chaplaincy and houses CCM's activities in its student center.
  6. FOCUS | Thomas Merton Institutethomasmertoninstitute.org/focus · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Four FOCUS Missionaries have been present as part of the Columbia Catholic Ministry team since 2011”
    Four FOCUS missionaries serve as part of the Columbia Catholic Ministry team, as they have since 2011.
  7. Columbia University - FOCUSfocus.org/campus/columbia-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “George French Hadlaw Nelly Hadlaw Bloomer Anne Bloomer”
    FOCUS lists Columbia University as a campus it serves, with missionaries George French, Nelly Hadlaw, and Anne Bloomer.
  8. Mass Times | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/mass-times · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Notre Dame Church is part of the Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame (ccnd-nyc.org). Other Sunday and daily Mass times in the parish include: Saturday, 5:00 PM, Corpus Christi Church (529 W. 121st St.) (Confessions heard before Mass 4:00 - 4:45 PM) Sunday, 9:00 AM, Notre Dame Church (405 W. 114th St.) Sunday, 10:30 AM (Spanish), Corpus Christi Sunday, 10:30 AM (French), Notre Dame Sunday, 12:00 PM, Corpus Christi Sunday, 9:00 PM, Corpus Christi Daily (Mon - Fri), 8:00 AM, Corpus Christi”
    The Parish of Corpus Christi and Notre Dame also has Mass Saturday 5 PM at Corpus Christi (confession 4-4:45 PM), Sunday 9 AM and 10:30 AM (French) at Notre Dame, Sunday 10:30 AM (Spanish), noon, and 9 PM at Corpus Christi, and weekdays 8 AM at Corpus Christi.
  9. Events | Columbia Catholic Ministrycolumbia-catholic.org/events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Join us on Sundays at 6:15 PM (after our student Mass ends) for an excellent home-cooked meal and even better company! These Sunday suppers are held at the Thomas Merton Institute for Catholic Life, the building connected to the Church of Notre Dame to its west.”
    Sunday suppers follow the student Mass at 6:15 PM at the Merton Institute, which is connected to the Church of Notre Dame.

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Academic Excellence

AAcademic Excellence: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
100 of 100
From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

  • Graduation rate 35% of scoreThis measure counts for 35% of the Academic Excellence score.96%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.98%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,553 · ACT 34.5
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.6 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$110,371

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Undergraduate students
Fall enrollment (IPEDS)
9,111
Total students35,279
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$21,590
Cost of attendance (per year)$89,472
Median federal debt at graduation$21,500
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
96%
First-year retention98%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$102,491
Admission rate4%
Students receiving Pell grants23%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1553
SAT reading & writing740–780
SAT math770–800
ACT composite34–35
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 75 / 100 (how it’s computed)

Sources: College Scorecard · IPEDS College Navigator · Net price calculator
College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026); IPEDS 2024-25 directory and institutional characteristics; fall 2023 enrollment.

Local Church

Archdiocese of New York

The Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks, Archbishop of New York

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Cathedral: St. Patrick's Cathedral

Source: archny.org, archny.org, verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Diocese determined from the county, using the diocese’s county list (Wikipedia). Confirm with the diocese.

About this school’s data

  • IPEDS unit ID 190150
  • Carnegie classification: Doctoral university (very high research)
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
  • Report an error or a newer source

Questions families ask

Is Columbia University in the City of New York a Catholic college?
No. Columbia University in the City of New York is not a Catholic college. Catholic School Compass rates the Catholic life on its campus instead. Catholic students are served by Columbia Catholic Ministry.
What is Columbia University in the City of New York’s Catholic Life Score?
98 out of 100 (grade A). It measures Catholic life on campus: campus ministry, priests, Mass and confession, student groups, and nearby parishes, together with academics.
Where is Mass celebrated at Columbia University in the City of New York?
Mass is listed at Church of Notre Dame, 405 W. 114th St., Corpus Christi Church and 529 W. 121st St.. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.
Is Columbia University in the City of New York Compass Recommended?
Yes. Columbia University in the City of New York meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic life on campus.

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